How to disappear with a New Identity and stay Anonymous

Disappearing with a New Identity: Insights from Amicus International

At Amicus International, we delve into the intricacies of disappearing and living anonymously. Recently, we had a fascinating conversation with Bob Burton, a renowned bounty hunter, who shared his expert insights on vanishing and starting anew with a fresh identity.

The Art of Disappearing

Disappearing effectively requires combining strategy, resourcefulness, and a deep understanding of identity systems. According to Mr. Burton, the key lies in securing a new identity that can withstand scrutiny. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Research Obituaries

The first step in creating a new identity is finding a suitable candidate who has passed away. This involves meticulous research into obituaries:

1. Choosing the Right Candidate: Look for individuals around your age with a nondescript job, such as a gas station attendant. This reduces the chances of someone noticing the disappearance.
2. Geographical Considerations: Select obituaries from places geographically distant from where you plan to establish your new identity. This makes cross-referencing less likely.

Step 2: Obtaining the Birth Certificate

With the chosen candidate’s details, the next step is to obtain their birth certificate. Here’s how:

1. Creating a Plausible Story: Develop a convincing backstory to request the birth certificate. Mr. Burton suggests claiming to have lived abroad for many years, such as a missionary in American Samoa, and needing the certificate for legal reasons.
2. Making the Call: Contact the relevant county office and make the request. Use your well-prepared story to explain why you need the document and why it must be sent to a new address.

Step 3: Securing Initial Identification

Once the birth certificate is in hand, the next step is to use it to obtain a primary form of identification, such as a driver’s license:

1. Driver’s License Application: Apply for a driver’s license using the obtained birth certificate. Ensure that all details match the information on the certificate.
2. Secondary Identification: Once you have a driver’s license, you can use it to acquire other forms of identification, such as a Social Security card or passport.

Step 4: Building a Credible Backstory

Creating a convincing backstory for your new identity is essential to avoid suspicion:

1. Education and Employment Records: Fabricate education and employment histories that are difficult to verify. Choose institutions and companies that are either defunct or located in distant areas.
2. Social Connections: Develop a network of social connections who can endorse your new identity. This might involve creating fictional characters or enlisting trusted friends to play roles.

Step 5: Securing Financial Independence

Financial independence is crucial for maintaining your new identity:

1. Opening Bank Accounts: Use your new identification to open bank accounts using your new name. Consider using offshore accounts to obscure your financial trail further.
2. Building Credit: Gradually build a credit history by applying for credit cards and loans in your new name. Ensure timely payments to establish a good credit score.

Step 6: Relocating Strategically

Choosing the right location to start your new life is vital for maintaining anonymity:

1. Culturally Diverse Areas: Select a culturally diverse location where blending in is more accessible. Large cities with transient populations, like New York or Los Angeles, are ideal.
2. Tourist Destinations: Consider relocating to areas with high tourist traffic, where new faces are familiar and less likely to draw attention.

Creating Disinformation

Creating disinformation is a critical strategy when planning to disappear and start a new life. Deliberately spreading false information can lead anyone searching for you down the wrong path. Here are detailed steps on how to effectively create disinformation:

Altering Official Records

Start by altering the records held by various companies and organizations. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Utilities and Services: Contact your utility providers and inform them of changes to your details. For example, you could correct the spelling of your name or change your social security number slightly. Ensure these changes are plausible to avoid raising suspicion.
2. Mailing Address: Set up a fake mail drop through a private mailing company and redirect your bills and other correspondence to this address. This creates a false trail for anyone tracking you through your mail.
3. Employment Records: If possible, alter your employment records to reflect incorrect details. This might involve changing your previous addresses or contact information with your employer.

Spreading Misinformation

In addition to altering official records, spread misinformation in other areas of your life:

1. Social Media: Before deactivating your social media accounts, update them with false information. For example, change your location, job details, and relationship status. This will mislead anyone who might search for you online.
2. Friends and Acquaintances: Casually drop hints about plans that are entirely false. Mention that you are considering moving to a different city or country or starting a new job far from where you intend to go.
3. Online Activity: Join forums and groups unrelated to your interests and leave comments suggesting a different lifestyle. This will create a broader and more confusing digital footprint.

Financial Disinformation

Your financial activities can also be used to create a false trail:

1. Bank Accounts: Open new bank accounts in different locations and deposit small amounts of money. This will create a misleading financial trail that suggests you might be in a different area.
2. Credit Cards: Apply for credit cards using your false identity details and make purchases in various locations. Pay off these cards promptly to avoid debt collectors who might trace you.

Disguising Your Physical Location

Finally, disguise your physical movements to throw off any potential trackers:

1. Travel Plans: Book travel tickets to various destinations using different aliases. The records suggest you’ve travelled to multiple locations even if you don’t use these tickets.
2. Hotel Stays: Reserve hotel rooms under different names in cities you have no intention of visiting. This creates a complex trail that is difficult to follow.
3. Rental Properties: Sign short-term leases in different areas and move out quickly. This can make you seem constantly on the move and make it harder to pin down.

Practical Tips for Disappearing Successfully

1. Secure Financial Independence: Before disappearing, ensure you have enough cash reserves. Open offshore bank accounts and transfer funds well in advance. This financial independence will support you in the initial stages of your new life.
2. Change Your Appearance: Altering your appearance can be critical in ensuring you are not easily recognized. Simple changes like dyeing your hair, growing a beard, or adopting a new dress style can significantly reduce the chances of being identified.
3. Choose a New Location Wisely: Opt for a culturally diverse location where blending in is more accessible. Cities with large populations or regions with frequent tourist traffic can provide the anonymity you need.
4. Create a Plausible Backstory: Develop a convincing backstory for your new identity. This should include your new name, background, and reasons for relocating. Practice this story until it becomes second nature.
5. Learn the Local Language: If you are moving to a non-English speaking country, learn the local language. Being able to communicate effectively will not only help you blend in but also avoid drawing attention.
6. Avoid Digital Footprints: Use cash for transactions and avoid using any digital payment methods. Be cautious with online activities and refrain from logging into old accounts or using your previous email addresses.
7. Change Your Routine: Adopt a new daily routine that doesn’t mirror your old life. Frequently go to different places, take up new hobbies, and avoid habits that could tie you back to your former identity.
8. Regularly Update Your Tactics: Stay informed about new technologies and methods that might compromise your anonymity. Periodically update your tactics to stay ahead of those looking for you.

Psychological Preparedness

Disappearing with a new identity is as much a psychological challenge as a logistical one. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Emotional Detachment: Be prepared to cut emotional ties with friends and family. This can be the most challenging aspect, but it is crucial for your safety and the success of your new identity.
2. Maintain Low Profiles: It is vital to keep a low profile. Avoid making new friends quickly or becoming too familiar with neighbours and colleagues. The less attention you attract, the safer you will be.
3. Stay Disciplined: The temptation to reach out to old acquaintances or revisit familiar places can be substantial. Stay disciplined and remember the reasons for your disappearance.

Final Thoughts

Disappearing and starting a new life with a new identity is complex and demanding. It requires careful planning, legal considerations, and a significant lifestyle change. At Amicus International, we are committed to helping you understand the nuances of this process and providing the guidance you need to make informed decisions.

Whether you are seeking a fresh start or looking to protect your identity, our expertise and resources can help you successfully navigate the challenges of disappearing. Remember, the key to a successful disappearance lies in meticulous planning, unwavering commitment, and the ability to seamlessly adapt to your new life.