What is identity theft?

Identity theft refers to the act of stealing someone’s personal information to commit fraud. This can involve acquiring sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, or bank account information with the intent to impersonate the victim and engage in fraudulent activities. This definition encompasses the broader category of identity-related crimes where the thief uses this stolen information to benefit financially or to create false identities, which can have serious repercussions for the victims involved.

The focus on personal information is vital in understanding the implications of identity theft, as it goes beyond mere physical property or identification items. It emphasizes the vulnerability of personal data in our digital age, where such information can be exploited without any physical interaction or theft of tangible items. This recognition highlights the importance of protecting personal information to prevent such crimes from occurring.