Surviving a New Identity

CHANGE OF IDENTITY
HOW TO SURVIVE IT

No one changes their identity without good cause. In the UK today it is estimated that there are thousands of people who are living the lie of a new identity.

As a former undercover investigator I have ‘played’ the identity game. Mine was for short periods. However, the problems are the same and being caught out was no less dangerous.

Firstly then, it follows that if you have had to change your identity you have to become a very accomplished liar. Imagine one day you are who you are, the next you have taken on a life that you have never lived. You have a story that you have to make credible but you’ve never had the true experiences of that life story.

From the moment you are given the new identity you have to live it, become the new person. You can not bring attention to yourself, as bringing attention also brings with it curiosity and questioning. By the same token, you can not be too ‘grey’; too much in the shadows, as this will bring even more curiosity. So your survival depends on your ability to continue with your life as though nothing had changed. You have a new name, new persona, and you have to carry this off day in day out, night in night out there’s no let up. You can’t go into areas where you are known, (unless you’ve been given a new face that is) you can’t contact people you love or care for as contacting them compromises them and you.

My experience is that as time goes on you do move into the new you. The problem is that you have to keep your position. In time your real life merges with the false life and your memories start to be unclear, parts of your true life can be revealed especially when you are relaxed. People who know you well in the ‘new life’ can quickly pick up on anomalies in your history. Once doubt starts to come into the new life story it’s time to move on. Staying where you are allows those around you who have a suspicion to test out their concerns about you.

Moving on is no easy option. Usually, those who are subject to long term change of identity are known to the authorities. They are allocated a handler, a person who knows them and is trusted. The handler will help with the interface between the day to day lie and the authorities. They are also there to guide and assist. They can be called upon at any time and are expected to respond without delay.

Anyone subjected to long term changes of identity are likely to experience times of emotional and psychological distress. In the background to new identities there are professionals who can be called on to help as and when needed.