Theft Prevention For The Deceased
We have all seen the movie or read the book where someone takes on a new identity by searching a cemetery for a suitably aged candidate and then obtaining relevant records and assuming the deceased's identity. While some might think such activity is a thing of fiction, in reality, scoundrels do steal identities of deceased for a number of purposes including improperly obtaining the deceased's assets or credits.
If you are an executor of an estate, or a family member of a deceased person, here are a few tips to prevent identity theft.
A lot of information about a deceased can be gained through public obituaries and social media. This information includes maiden names, ancestries and descendants, addresses, birth/death dates, and occupations. While a tribute may be appropriate, be careful what information is published in the public sphere including on social media pages.
Forward mail to the executor's address in a timely manner. Stealing mail is still one of the easiest ways to obtain personal or financial information. As executor you should take steps to have Canada Post forward mail to yourself to ensure that the mail is not obtained and used improperly.
Notify credit bureaus about the decease. This ensures that any credit enquires will be flagged as improper.
Notify membership organizations, institutions etc. to which the deceased belonged as timely as possible to ensure that memberships are cancelled and are not used improperly.
Consider the potential consequences of sharing the deceased's personal information with anyone including family members. Be alert that not all identity theft occurs by strangers. In some cases, family members may assume a deceased's identity because they feel deprived by the disposition of the estate or are in difficult personal financial circumstances.
For the individual, before decease, (when making your will): consider making a list of organizations and institutions including places where memberships are held such as shopping clubs or fitness clubs to ensure that the executor can timely provide notification.
The content and the opinions expressed here is informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Nor does reading or commenting on it create a lawyer/client relationship with the author. I encourage you to contact me directly at adrianlawoffice@gmail.com if you have specific legal questions or concerns.
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