identity theft victimization (property)

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

use of personal identifying info to commit some type of fraud
**FEDERAL OFFENSE 1998
*includes taking over an account, making a new one, creating an identity to obtain services
*can happen many ways:
-computers, listening over phone, mail, skimming devices

Question 2

extent

Answer 2

-may not be aware it happened
-reports to federal trade commission

Question 3

victims at HIGHER RISK

Answer 3

• adults who have CREDIT CARDS (35+)
  -WHITE people
  -persons in HIGHER income households

Question 4

RISK FACTORS

Answer 4

-leaving things in trash
-making PERSONAL CALLS in public spaces
-using PUBLIC WIFI

Question 5

CONSEQUENCES

Answer 5

-direct costs: monies, values of goods and services
-indirect costs: legal and phone calls, bounced checks, notary fees
-other problems: higher interest rates, turned down for loans, utilities shut off, issues with debt collectors

Question 6

Responses:LA times article

Answer 6

-police NOT VERY HELPFUL
-What is difficult for police NOT WELL PREPARED, IDENTITY THEFT-not same jurisdiction

Question 7

Responses: Federal acts passed by CONGRESS

Answer 7

-can get a FREE COPY of credit, report from each of 3 bureaus each year
-can place FRAUD ALERTS on credit files
-FEDERAL CRIME to send emails in certain circumstances
-enhancements for prison sentences

Question 8

PREVENTION

Answer 8

-protect mail
-dont discuss personal info on phone