Identity Theft

Identity theft is a crime where a criminal acquires and uses the victim's personal information, such as a Social Security or driver license number, to take out loans, obtain new credit cards, charge on an existing account that has available credit, rent an apartment, buy a car, file for bankruptcy or perform various other criminal activities. Identity theft can not only damage someone's creditworthiness; it can also create unknown criminal records that can result in the identity theft victim being wrongfully arrested or denied employment after a routine background check.

Below is a document and a brochure about identity theft.

• Take Charge: Fighting Back Against Identity Theft
• Deter, Detect, Defend Identity Theft

The Federal Trade Commission website (FTC.gov) is a one-stop national resource to learn about the crime of identity theft. It provides detailed information to help consumers deter, detect, and defend against identity theft and how to avoid identity theft. It also provides guidance on what to do if one's identity is stolen.  

Click here to watch a video on identity theft.