Can a spouse be charged with identity theft?

Spouses that continue to open accounts under their spouse’s name and information will be considered identity thieves and can be subjected to identity theft charges. Additionally, victims of spousal identity theft can file for divorce if amends cannot be made.

Where can I get charges for identity theft?

Identity theft charges can be brought by both the federal government, often in the form of the Federal Trade Commission, and by state or local law enforcement agencies, which can have different penalties attached to those charges.

Can You prosecute an ex spouse for credit card fraud?

Identity theft is a federal offense in which a person steals another person’s sensitive information to fraudulently open credit accounts in that person’s name, usually with the intention of purchasing goods and services without paying for them.

Can a woman Sue her ex for identity theft?

Unless you are well off and can afford to pay the debt just to put your ex and his shenanigans behind you, you should try to fight this case of spousal identity theft. Robert Siciliano, an identity theft expert with BestIDTheftCompanys.com, says, “We see this all the time. She would have to sue her ex and win to be relieved of any debt.”

What to do if your ex spouse opens a credit account for himself?

Thus, if your ex-spouse is using your information or your children’s information to open credit accounts for himself, he is guilty of identity theft. Contact your local police and your state’s attorney general regarding identity theft.

Why was my wife not charged with theft?

Farley contacted law enforcement and tried to charge his wife with theft, but was told by a state attorney that his wife’s actions were valid because she was his wife who shared his property. According to Farley, the state did not take any action of justice against his wife for her fraud and theft.

Is there an exception to the ITRC for spousal identity theft?

The ITRC states that “the only general exception to this rule is if they’ve forged your signature without your consent” which would be regarded as forgery and/or fraud. Victims of spousal identity theft have a few options to remedy their situations. One option is to keep the situation in the family.

What can I do about identity theft after a divorce?

Farley intends to use professional identity theft protection services to help keep his identity secure once his divorce goes through and he can rebuild his savings. Unfortunately, Farley’s experience, like many victim of identity theft situations, did not have a happy ending.

What does it mean to be victim of identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone uses an individual’s personal information without permission to receive some kind of benefit, most commonly money and property. Personal data may also be used by an imposter to fraudulently obtain employment, housing, medical care, utility services, education, or to avoid a record of arrest or conviction.

What happens when a family member steals your identity?

Knowing that someone has used your personal information for financial gain is one thing, but when that person is close to you, it’s entirely another. What happens when you suffer at the hands of a family member who victimizes you to commit identity theft?

Where can I file a report of identity theft?

Call the FTC toll-free at 877-IDTHEFT, or go to the FTC’s identity theft website, IdentityTheft.gov. The next very important step is to file a report with your local police or county sheriff. You may be reluctant to do this, but you need this report to prove you were the victim of identity theft.