Identity theft, also known as “identity fraud” is generally defined as the fraudulent use of someone else’s information without permission. This means that a victim of identity theft is left with the consequences of his or her imposter’s actions, whether he or she is aware of it or not. These crimes can threaten everything from your finances and personal reputation, to your livelihood and physical health.
Insurance / Medical Theft
In times of desperation, uninsured individuals may use your identity to receive medical attention. It is an unfortunate reality that not every can afford healthcare, but to a victim of this type of identity theft, the crime can be very costly – even deadly. Not only would you or your insurance company be responsible for the charges, but your records might also reflect someone else’s medical history, putting you at great risk in case of an emergency.
Deflection of Criminal Activities
Strangers carrying your personal identification are a frightening threat, especially when they are committing a crime. If a criminal presents your identification upon arrest, it is your name that will be associated with the offense. Police reports are very difficult to clear from your record and may hinder your ability to get a job, apply for credit or loans, and more.
Identity thieves use this same concept to avoid suffering the consequences of driving infractions. Imagine having your driver’s license revoked because someone received too many tickets or a DUI conviction in your name.
Employment / Benefits Fraud
Individuals with poor employment histories or lacking the proper qualifications to work in the United States may use stolen identification to obtain employment. If someone used your social security number without your knowledge, you may be responsible for his or her earned income taxes and run into other problems with an altered employment history.
Financial / Credit Fraud
This is the type of crime that most people will usually relate to identity theft, in which a thief uses your information to apply for new lines of credit. The thief will need to establish a new address to evade your suspicions, so the cards, documentation, and bills will be sent to them, and not to you. The thief will buy anything from groceries to electronics to houses, leaving you with the debt and damage to your credit.
Although this is the most common type of identity theft, it still only makes up 20% of all reported identity theft occurrences.
This list below portrays a few examples of the types of identity theft that claim over 10 million Americans each year.
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Credit Reports |
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DMV Driving History |
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Motor Vehicle Registration History |
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Global Criminal Check |
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U.S. Criminal Record Check |
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U.S. Wants and Warrants Check |
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Sex Offender Registry |
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Social Security Number Trace |
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Terrorist Watch List |
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Bankruptcies, Liens and Judgments |
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And much more… |
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