Identity theft is the crime of getting personal information about another person without their knowledge, for example in order to gain access to their bank account.
Because of the danger of identity theft, we are told not to give personal informationover the phone.
identity theft in British English
noun
the crime of setting up and using bank accounts and credit facilities fraudulently in another person's name without his or her knowledge
identity theft in American English
noun
the unauthorized use of private information concerning some person, as his or her Social Security or PIN number, to engage in fraudulent activities under that person's name
Examples of 'identity theft' in a sentence
identity theft
It also uses facial recognition systems to avert identity theft.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
It could also be used to set up direct debits or for identity theft.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
He had been on probation after being convicted of burglary and identity theft.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
Until the politicians get their act together, the modern scourge of identity theft can only spread.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
The City regulator is looking into how card and identity theft protection products were sold.
The Sun (2011)
It would be an identity theft free-for-all.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
In fact, they aim to steal your details for identity theft.
The Sun (2014)
Individuals lost 6 billion as a result of crimes such as identity theft and online ticket fraud.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Organised crime uses identity theft to launder money, and it is fiendishly difficult to catch the people responsible.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
But she surrendered to police and now faces trial on charges of commercial burglary, grand theft and identity theft.
The Sun (2009)
It can be difficult to trace people who sell, particularly if they are using details of victims of identity theft.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
If your credit or debit card is lost, banks will often try to sell identity theft insurance when issuing your new card.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
A credit card and identity theft specialist has been forced to pull its flagship insurance product amid concerns about alleged failings in its sales pitch.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
Victims of identity theft in the US will be able to claim money for time spent getting their lives back together.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
It says: 'Many people have questioned whether either identity theft or card protection insurance is worthwhile at all.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
If you're applying for credit or want to protect yourself against identity theft, obtaining your credit score should definitely be at the top of your agenda.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
In other languages
identity theft
British English: identity theft /aɪˈdɛntɪtɪ θɛft/ NOUN
Identity theft is the crime of getting personal information about another person without their knowledge, for example in order to gain access to their bank account.