If a person is accused of identity theft, they can face serious consequences. Identity theft involves using another person’s information without their permission for illegal reasons, like opening accounts in their name, applying for loans or making purchases.
Identity theft overview
Identity theft can happen in several ways. With phishing, victims receive a deceptive message asking them to send money or provide their password, credit card numbers or Social Security number.
It can also happen when the victim’s information is obtained from a customer database and can include their name, address and other personal details or through the mail, where their bank statements, medical records or other financial information is stolen.
Victims can also be tricked into providing sensitive information on websites made to look like legitimate pages.
Penalties
While the penalties for identity theft can vary depending on the situation, there are some common consequences that are helpful to understand. If a person is found guilty of identity theft, they can be sentenced to jail or prison. The sentence can range from a few months to several years. The court may also order probation, which means that the person is monitored to ensure they are meeting the conditions of their release.
The convicted person may also be required to pay fines and may be ordered to pay restitution to the victim, including legal fees. In addition to criminal penalties, the conviction can affect future job opportunities and housing and may negatively affect their reputation in the community.
If a person has been accused of identity theft, there is help available.