They think that if they were famous, like Tiger Woods, or if their physical well-being were violated or jeopardized, the police would become immediately active. The bottom line is that identity theft is a dual crime against both the financial institution and the individual whose identity has been stolen. If you have not communicated effectively with a victim and have left that person feeling law enforcement is part of the problem, it may be harder for the next person to establish a working relationship with that victim. This fact sheet contains some techniques that will help you to more effectively communicate with victims. By turning them into assets instead of liabilities, you actually save time and energy in dealing with the case.
Victims are scared.
They are confused. Their ability to trust anyone has been severely tested. Identity theft is a repetitive crime and victims suffer some of the same emotional damage as victims of repeated physical assault. It feels like it will never end, especially when you keep receiving more notices by phone or in the mail from creditors. Almost all victims report that financial, emotional and criminal assault on their good names has permanently impacted their lives.