Identity Theft Victims – How to Cope When it Happens to You

Typically, when a crime is committed, the police take care of things. It’s what they’re paid to do. When the crime is identity theft, however, you get to take on your case all by yourself. And cleaning up the mess a thief made is a huge chore.

In more complicated identity theft cases, when multiple new accounts are opened in your name, restoring your credit can take tons of time, money, and dedication. You might even have to take time off work to focus on the project, which can take months upon frustrating months to complete.

Emotional Impact

Bottom line: It’s not fun, and it’s not fair. It’s okay, healthy even, to be furious about it. You’ll probably feel some combination of anger, hurt, helplessness, dread, even betrayal if the thief is someone you know, and these kinds of feelings are totally to be expected. So talk to a friend, punch a pillow, or maybe even talk to a professional. And then try to look at your new full-time job—restoring your credit—as the perfect way to keep your mind off all those messy emotions!