Dealing With The Emotional Impact

You're going to be on an emotional rollercoaster as soon as you find out about the violation.

You might as well accept that right now and deal with it.

Find someone you can talk to. Someone who can advise you. Most people won't know what you're going through. Find someone who does.

There are many resource centers. Search for “identity theft resource center” at Google. There are lots on the Internet.

You should also investigate local options. Sometimes it's better to talk with someone in person. Check your local yellow pages.

If you can't find anyone locally, look up Linda Foley of the Identity Theft Resource Center. Search for “identity theft resource center” at Google. Her organization is currently the first result.

She gives advice on her website, and addresses the emotional problems that you will face. If she can't help you, she'll probably know someone who can.

You have to get help. You'll probably feel violated because it's not just a material loss. It's more than that.

Someone was out there, pretending to be you. They sullied your good name. You don't know what they did while they were pretending to be you. But it probably wasn't good.

You need someone with experience who can sit you down, explain your options, and help you figure out how you can get through this.

Don't try to be strong and deal with this by yourself. You need help. Get it.