Delaware Identity

If prosecuted as a misdemeanor, the maximum punishment for identity theft in California is a year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. As a felony, the penalty can be as high as three years in jail and a $10,000 fine.

Consider paying for an identity theft protection service only if: You're already the victim of identity theft or at high risk of it. You are unwilling to freeze your credit reports.You have checked and don't have adequate identity theft monitoring available for free as a benefit or as a result of a data breach.

You may be able to have your identity theft charges dropped if: You didn't obtain use a person's information unlawfully If you did not obtain or use someone else's personal information unlawfully, you are not guilty of identity theft.

Identity thieves can also obtain your personal information by stealing your wallet or purse. When this occurs, we recommend that you immediately contact credit card companies, bank, and credit bureaus to let them know of your situation.

Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment for two years or by imprisonment for five years if it relates to a terrorism offense. At least thus far, the government has rarely prosecuted the five-year terrorism form of the offense.

Password-Protect Your Devices. Use a Password Manager. Watch Out for Phishing Attempts. Never Give Out Personal Information Over the Phone. Regularly Check Your Credit Reports. Protect Your Personal Documents. Limit Your Exposure.

Federal identity theft charges usually carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison, but ID theft cases often include additional charges that can add to prison time.

Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Report. Freeze Your Credit Report. Order Your Free Credit Reports. Buy Your Credit Reports. Monitor Your Accounts Online. Enroll in Credit Monitoring. Keep Your Social Security Number Safe. Pick Up Your Check Order.