NCJ Number
214251
Date Published
2003
Length
80 pages
Annotation
The first four chapters of this manual on identity theft explain the functions of first responders--police, fraud investigators, prosecutors, and judges--followed by a chapter that provides information to victims of identity theft regarding the process of recovery and damage control.
Abstract
The opening chapter first defines identity theft, followed by an explanation of the attraction of identity theft as a low-risk, high-return crime. This chapter also explains how identities are stolen, how victims learn their identities have been stolen, the importance of victims filing a complaint with police, and the importance of police being prepared to take and act upon the report. Chapter 2 outlines the steps of first responders: take the complaint; instruct and guide victims in how to limit the harms; follow a checklist in collecting as much information as possible from the victim on relevant matters; and advise the victim on sources of information for dealing with their victimization. Chapter 3 explains how to use the victim checklist, followed by a chapter on where to begin the investigation, with attention to the analysis of three credit bureau reports, an analysis of the fraudulent credit card application completed by the thief, and tracking identity thieves online. The chapter for victims explains the nature of the crime and how it is committed, common victim reactions, and what to do to repair harms and prevent revictimization. 38 references and appended information on identity theft statistics and trends, how to request a free credit bureau report, correcting personal information on credit reports, requesting that businesses remove fraudulent charges, disputing fraudulent charges with credit bureaus, and requesting businesses to remove unauthorized credit inquiries