Identity Theft

Identity theft and identity fraud are terms used to refer to all types of crime in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person's personal data in a way that involves fraud or deception, typically for economic gain. Identity theft occurs when someone steals key pieces of personal identifying information, which may include a name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and mother's maiden name, to gain access to a person's financial accounts. Armed with this information, an identity thief may open new credit or financial accounts, buy cars, apply for loans or Social Security benefits, rent an apartment, or set up utility and phone service—in someone else’s name. Learn more about identity theft by visiting the sites below.

Identity Theft Presentation with Speakers Notes
This presentation, with speakers notes, covers 10 steps that businesses should follow to protect personal information and avoid identity theft from occurring. Learn More>>

The President's Identity Theft Task Force Releases Comprehensive Strategic Plan to Combat Identity Theft The President’s Identity Theft Task Force has been organized to provide recommendations to effectively combat identity theft through its strategic plan. The plan focuses on ways to improve the effectiveness of criminal prosecutions of identity theft; enhance data protection for sensitive consumer information maintained by the public sector, private sector, and consumers; provide more comprehensive and effective guidance for consumers and the business community; and improve recovery and assistance for consumers. Learn More>>   To view The President’s Identity Theft Task Force Strategic Plan documents, refer to the links below:   ·         Combating Identity Theft. A Strategic Plan ·         Combating Identity Theft. Volume II – Supplemental Information     Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act October 1998, Congress passed the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998 (Identity Theft Act) to address the problem of identity theft. Specifically, the Act amended 18 U.S.C. § 1028 to make it a federal crime when anyone: knowingly transfers or uses, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet, any unlawful activity that constitutes a violation of Federal law, or that constitutes a felony under any applicable State or local law. Learn More>>   Help Prevent Identity Theft Checklist Most companies keep sensitive personal information in their files and in their computers—names, Social Security numbers, account data—that identifies customers or employees. Companies need information like that to fill orders, meet payroll or perform other necessary business functions. But if sensitive data falls into the wrong hands, it can lead to fraud or identity theft. Safeguarding sensitive data is just plain good business. You can take the following steps to help protect the personal information of your customers or clients. Learn More>>

Coping With Identity Theft: Reducing the Risk of Fraud This guide lists steps you can take to reduce your risk of fraud. Learn More>>

Identity Theft And Your Social Security Number Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. When a dishonest person has your Social Security number, the thief can use it to get other personal information about you. Most of the time identity thieves use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. Learn More>>

What Should I Do If I've Become A Victim Of Identity Theft? If you think you've become a victim of identity theft or fraud, act immediately to minimize the damage to your personal funds and financial accounts, as well as your reputation. Here's a list—based in part on a checklist prepared by the California Public Interest Research Group (CalPIRG) and the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse—of some actions that you should take right away. Learn More>>

Florida's Identity Theft Victim Kit This kit is designed to help you through the process of resolving your identity theft case and clearing your name. While there are many general identity theft resource guides available, this kit was specifically developed to provide assistance to Floridians who are identity theft victims, as well as individuals in other states who had their personal information fraudulently used in the state of Florida. Learn More

Protect Against Identity Theft This article gives you some safety advisories to pass along to clients on how to guard against identity theft. Learn More>>

ID Theft Home This Web site contains information on identity theft from the Federal Trade Commission. Learn More>>

Identity Theft 911 This website offers individuals, businesses, and institutions the world's most comprehensive solution to the problem of identity theft—one that addresses people's lives, not just their bank accounts. Learn More>>