Lost birth certificate in Mexico?

Question

My birth certificate was lost or stolen in Tijuana. I'm back in the US, and I have another copy, but I am worried about what could happen if the birth certificate fell into the wrong hands. What am I at risk for and what can I do about the situation?

Answer 1

I don't think so, well, at least in Mexico you need to prove you're the person on the birth certificate with an ID (a real one) so I don't think you should worry, otherwise I could use everything from, I don't know, my sister by just getting her birth certificate from her room!

Answer 2

Identity fraud is your biggest concern.

I suggest you put a freeze on your credit history for 1-2 years. By that time, I think you should have nothing to worry about.

When a security freeze is in place at all three major credit bureaus, an identity thief cannot open a new account because the potential creditor or seller of services will not be able to check the credit file. When the consumer is applying for credit, he or she can lift the freeze temporarily using a PIN so legitimate applications for credit or services can be processed.

The freeze can be initiated online through any of the 3 credit bureaus, transunion, equifax, and experian. It should be free.