When did the government consider ID Theft a problem?
Identity theft has been an issue for many years. In 1998, Congress created a federal offense of identity theft. One case, for example, that helped bring them to this decision involved the criminal, a convicted felon, that bought homes, motorcycles, and obtained more than $100,000 in credit card debt ending in a bankruptcy filing in the victim’s name. He called and taunted the victim and his wife telling them he would continue as long as he could, as at this point it was not a federal crime. He got away with not paying restitution for all the harm he caused, yet the victim spent over four years and paid over $15,000 of his own money to restore his credit and reputation.
What is the Government doing to combat identity theft?
Since the passing of the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act (18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7))in 1998, a new legislation created an offense of identity theft prohibiting “knowingly transferring or using, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet, any unlawful activity that constitutes a violation of Federal law or that constitutes a felony under any applicable State or local law.” In most cases this offense carries a maximum term of 15 years’ imprisonment, a fine and criminal forfeiture of personal property used or intended to be used to commit the crime.
The Department of Justice prosecutes cases of ID theft under a variety of other statutes as well. Such examples are Identification Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1028), Credit Card Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1029), Computer Fraud(18 U.S.C. § 1030) , Mail Fraud(18 U.S.C. § 1341), Wire Fraud(18 U.S.C. § 1343) , and Financial Institution Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344). Each of these federal offenses are felonies that carry substantial penalties as high as 30 years’ imprisonment, fines and criminal forfeiture. Federal prosecutors work with the FBI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Secret Service to prosecute Identity theft and fraud cases.
Should I Feel Safe Now From Becoming A Victim Of Identity Theft Or Fraud?
These statutes now allow the public to feel a bit more safe when it comes to protection from the government, however, we still need to be aware and monitor our own personal credit and finances. LifeLock is a great option for us to feel more secure. They not only monitor your personal situation, they protect you under the unfortunate circumstance that you do become a victim of Identity Theft. Using our exclusive LifeLock Promo Code: LLCSHRED you will get Up to 25% off and 30 days risk free* on any LifeLock product you choose! LifeLockcodes.com always has the most current and #1 promo codes for LifeLock protection.
*See site for details.
LifeLock Codes is an independent company that provides consumers with several of the best LifeLock promo codes available. We are constantly monitoring for new offers. The coupons we provide are usually the most current and best possible discounts available. Simply click the desired promo code or copy and paste it to save money!
