Life Cycle of Identity Theft : a Study of United States Secret Service Identity Theft Investigation Cases

서지정보

· 발행기관 : 한국과학수사학회
· 수록지 정보 : 과학수사학회지 / 3권 / 2호 / 107 ~ 116페이지
· 저자명 : Kyungseok Choo, Donald J. Rebovich

초록

The current study examines identity theft as a process, rather than a single offense. A analysis of US Secret Service investigation cases in the study shows a pattern oaf at least three stages of identity theft process: 1) acquisition of victim’s personal information, 2) illegal use of stolen personal information, 3) recognition of victimization. Therefore, the paper first discusses the initial stage of the identity theft process with a suitable victim(target) search and a means of stealing or obtaining the victim’s personal information. Then a discussion follows about the illegal use of stolen personal information stage, during which the offender uses stolen personal information to purchase merchandise or services, open bank accounts, access the victim’s accounts, manufacture other personal identification or documents, and sell this personal information. Finally, the paper address the final stage of the recognition of victimization that does not involve the offender, but rather, victim. It is important to note that identity theft’s lifecycle is dynamic, evolving, and adaptive; and is complicated by man factors such as the introduction of new information technology, sophistication of the identity theft operation, and the criminal groups involved. An awareness of identity theft’s lifecycle will help law enforcement officials, as first responders, be prepared when they respond to identity theft complaints, and equipped with effective tools to fight identity theft.

참고자료

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