Identity theft is without question a very tough crime to deal with. It can be exhausting trying to to clear your name, recover bank account funds, deny liabiity for charges, etc. For those wondering just how prevalent identity theft is, here are some short facts on the matter:
- Identity theft is considered to be the fastest-growing crime in the U.S.
- Roughly 700,000 become victims of identity theft every year.
- Identity theft costs consumers an estimated $500 million to $2 billion each year.
- Credit card fraud is the most common form of identity theft.
- Utility fraud (using another identity to get utility service) and bank fraud are the second and third most-common forms of identity theft.
- Approximately 40% of all fraud crimes involve identity theft.
- It takes some victims years to get identity theft matters resolved.
Needless to say, there are many other facts and statistcs that could be cited. Clearly, identity theft has a wide-ranging impact, and it's important that you develop protection and defense from the threat of identity theft.
You can find more resources regarding identity theft at Identity Theft Defense HQ.