What does “identity theft” involve?

The concept of "identity theft" is primarily defined as the act of stealing personal information to impersonate someone else. This can include various types of sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, and other identifying data. By acquiring this information, the perpetrator can engage in fraudulent activities, such as opening bank accounts, making purchases, or applying for loans in the victim's name.

While stealing financial records, creating fake identities for fraud, and taking ownership of someone’s assets may involve deceptive practices, they don't precisely capture the core essence of identity theft. The primary focus of identity theft is on the unauthorized use of someone's personal information to impersonate them rather than the act of stealing financial records outright or the creation of entirely fictitious identities without specific connection to an existing individual. Thus, the correct understanding revolves around the misuse of personal data for the purpose of impersonation, making it essential to address the severity and implications of identity theft in today's digital age.