How should I handle identity theft fraud?

You inquired about identity theft fraud. You must have been very surprised by the sudden damage.

First, if you are involved in identity theft fraud, it is important to quickly report it before the damage spreads.

If you become aware that your identity has been stolen, you can inquire with the relevant telecommunication company's customer center, confirm whether identity theft lines have been opened, and then file a report.

Then, the telecommunication company will conduct a fact-finding investigation to determine whether identity theft actually occurred.

If identity theft is recognized, charges cannot be made for unused fees, so it appears that recovery from the damage you suffered will be possible.

However, if identity theft is not recognized, you can try to resolve it by requesting mediation at the Telecommunications Civil Dispute Mediation Center.

Also, if the identity of the person who stole the identity is identified during the reporting process, criminal punishment is also possible.

Such identity theft fraud may be punished as fraud with imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to 20 million won.

If you want to prevent such identity theft in the future, it is good to subscribe to the "Identity Theft Prevention Service" provided by the Korea Association for ICT Promotion.

Through this service, when a mobile phone is opened in your name, you can receive notifications via text and email, which can reduce damages.

If you need legal advice or response in this process, I recommend that you receive help from a fraud crime attorney.