Identity Theft

Overview >> What do thieves actually steal?

• Financial ID theft: Victim's name and Social Security number used to obtain such services as telephone and credit card, bank loans, car and home leases, and expensive merchandise.
• Criminal ID theft: Victim's information used to avoid criminal court records or criminal penalty. Any inquiries result in providing victim information and perpetrator escapes the crime.
• Identity cloning: Thief uses victim's information to impersonate and live as victim. Usually the thief is trying to hide from hardship situations and attempting to become a new person.
• Business or commercial identity theft: Thieves use credit cards or checking accounts under the name of a business instead of an individual.