Useful and unique facts and resources about identity theft in Maryland
When you think of Maryland, you probably think of a nice, quiet state that doesn't get in the news much. But that doesn't make identity theft any less common here than in other parts of the country.
Identity theft in Maryland IS a problem
In 2005, Maryland ranked eleventh in terms of the number of identity theft complaints per 100,000 population. Most of those identity theft victims live in highly populated urban areas like Baltimore. However, many of the victims come from posh areas like Gaithersburg as well.
In Maryland, as in most states, it's not easy to catch an identity thief. But in this state, anyone who is caught pays a high price. An identity thief in Maryland can expect to receive up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.
Learn more about Maryland laws and regulations about identity theft.
How to resolve identity theft in Maryland
If you are a Maryland identity theft victim, take heart. With a growing number of resources at your disposal, you can reverse the curse of identity theft and reclaim your life.
Frankly, to clear your good name requires the resolve to follow through with what could be a long and trying effort. You may have to talk to many people, fill out dozens of forms, and devote countless hours of your time. Just remember: Don't give up! Though Maryland does have a lot of identity theft resources, none of them will resolve your problem with a single phone call.
The first step in the process is to check in with the Maryland Attorney General's Office, which has an in-depth web page devoted to Maryland identity theft victims -- this is the first and best place for you to look.
You can read the Maryland Attorney General's advice for identity theft victims by visiting this website:
http://www.oag.state.md.us/consumer/idtheft.htm
After you've read through these websites, it is crucial for you to push your case. Visit as many of the Maryland identity theft resources on those pages as it takes to help you win back your good name and credit standing.
You may be a victim now, but there is no reason for you to be a victim forever.
As long as you keep pushing, eventually your case will be resolved.
If you want to know more about identity theft and how you can prevent it, please read through the ScamBuster.org Identity Theft Information Center here.
