What is the remedy for identity theft?
In Maryland, the remedy for identity theft is twofold. First, any victims of identity theft should report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the local police. Second, if there are any financial losses due to identity theft, victims may be able to file a lawsuit to recover the lost money. Victims of identity theft should also contact their banks and local credit bureaus to ask for an investigation. The FTC recommends that victims also place a fraud alert on their credit reports. This alert notifies creditors that the victim may have had their identity stolen and creditors must contact the victim before opening any new accounts. In addition, Maryland law generally provides that any credit provider or debt collector who wrongfully and knowingly discloses personal information of the victim must be held liable for all damages suffered by the victim, including court costs and attorney’s fees. Furthermore, victims of identity theft may seek civil damages from their perpetrators if fraud or deception was used. Finally, identity theft victims may also be eligible for restitution or damages from the state, depending on the circumstances of the crime. In Maryland, victims may be eligible for up to $15,000 in damages from the state if their identity theft resulted in financial harm. Overall, the remedy for identity theft in Maryland includes reporting the crime to law enforcement, taking steps to secure personal information, placing a fraud alert on credit reports, and seeking restitution or damages through civil court. In addition, victims may be eligible for damages from the state.
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