identity theft
Definition
Obtaining a person's personal and financial information through criminal means. A thief uses this information for illegal purposes, such as to make purchases using the victim's name. Thieves can find information through discarded credit card or bank statements that are not destroyed, and can find the information online in customer databases.
Use identity theft in a sentence
“ You need to make sure and change your passwords often so that you do not become a victim to any identity theft. ”
“ My mother had a large amount of money stolen directly from her accounts through identity theft when the receptionist at her doctor's office took her personal information to get access to her funds. ”
“ Should you lose your social security card you are at serious risk of identity theft. It is best to never carry this around in your wallet or pocket unless you plan on using it. ”
