What is identity theft?

Identity theft refers to the unauthorized use of someone else's personal information, typically for the purpose of financial gain or to commit fraud. This can involve various forms of personal data, including social security numbers, credit card information, or bank account details. When a person's identity is stolen, the criminal can incur debts, make purchases, or open accounts in the victim's name, leading to significant financial and emotional harm for the victim.

Understanding the nuances of identity theft is crucial in today's digital age, where personal information can be easily collected or exposed through data breaches or phishing attacks. Awareness and education on this topic are essential for preventing identity theft and for understanding the implications it has on individuals and society. Therefore, recognizing that identity theft specifically involves the misuse of another person's information aligns with the established definition and context of this crime.