Identity theft is the unauthorised acquisition and use of a person’s private identifying information, usually for financial gain. This malicious act is executed without the victim’s knowledge, often leading to significant personal, economic, and emotional distress.

At its core, identity theft involves the perpetrator pretending to be someone else by assuming the victim’s identity to access resources or obtain credit and other benefits in the victim’s name.

The victim of identity theft can suffer adverse consequences if they are held accountable for the perpetrator’s actions. The nature of these crimes can range from simple misuse of stolen credit card data to more sophisticated takeovers of entire identities.

Common methods used by identity thieves include:

• Phishing: Sending fake emails or creating websites to trick individuals into providing personal information.

• Skimming: Using a small device to steal credit card information during a legitimate transaction.
• Physical theft: Stealing wallets, mail, or paperwork containing personal information.
• Data breaches: Unauthorised access to databases of personal information.
• Spyware and malware: Installing malicious software on computers to collect information.
• In the digital age, with a significant portion of personal information and financial transactions taking place online, the risk of identity theft has increased manifold.

The consequences can be devastating, affecting an individual’s credit score, financial resources, and emotional well-being and often taking years to resolve fully.