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Introduction to Identity Theft
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- Identity theft is the No. 1 consumer complaint
- Victims may lose their job or other critical employment opportunities.
- Burden of proof falls on the victim
Identity theft is the crime of using someone else's personal information, such as an account number, driver's license, health insurance card or Social Security number, to commit fraud.
From 1999 to 2010, identity theft was No. 1 on the FTC's annual list of consumer complaints. It's a crime that takes many forms. Identity thieves may rent an apartment, obtain a credit card, take out a line of credit at a jewelry or department store, receive medical services or establish a mobile phone account in someone else's name.
