Identity Theft

Identity theft is the fastest-growing crime in America. Based on credit bureau statistics, an estimated 1.5 million and 1.7 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2008. From stolen credit card information to hijacked email accounts, from misappropriated personal information to impersonation of others online, the range of identity theft crimes is wide and ever expanding–and most victims never learn how the identity thieves accessed their personal information in the first place. Because teens post so much personal information online on blogs, social networking sites, and Web sites, they are at high risk for these crimes. Identity Theft explains the different types of identity theft crimes and how they are committed, providing valuable advice on how to protect personal information and stay safe online. Safeguards like Internet safety software and other technologies, such as biometrics, that can help protect an individual’s identity are also discussed in this book.