NCJ Number
210583
Date Published
September 2003
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This overview of the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Program for the period October 1998-September 2003 focuses on assistance to identity theft victims, outreach and education, and the functions of the Identity Theft Data Clearinghouse.
Abstract
Pursuant to the 1998 Federal Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act, Congress directed the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to log the complaints of identity-theft victims; provide identity-theft victims with informational materials; and refer complaints to appropriate entities, including the major national consumer reporting agencies and law enforcement agencies. The FTC began receiving complaints from consumers via a toll-free phone line on November 1, 1999. The FTC's identity-theft Web site provides equivalent service for those who prefer online interaction. An education booklet issued by the FTC covers a range of topics on identity theft. The FTC has sent letters to States' attorneys general to explain the FTC's identity theft program and how the attorney general can use the program's resources to assist State residents. Other outreach initiatives for law enforcement include participation in a "Roll Call" video and CD-ROM resource guide that instructs officers on identity theft, investigative resources, and victim assistance. The FTC has worked with industry and consumer advocates to create a standard form for victims to use in resolving identity-theft debts. The FTC is also working with institutions that maintain personal information to identify ways to keep this information safe from identity theft. The FTC has also created the Identity Theft Data Clearinghouse to provide a fuller portrait of the nature, prevalence, and trends in identity theft. Relevant legislative proposals supported by the FTC are outlined. 5 figures