Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act
In October 1998, Congress passed the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998 (Identity Theft Act) to address the problem of identity theft. Specifically, the Act amended 18 U.S.C. § 1028 to make it a federal crime when anyone:
knowingly transfers or uses, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet, any unlawful activity that constitutes a violation of Federal law, or that constitutes a felony under any applicable State or local law.
Violations of the Act are investigated by federal investigative agencies such as the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by the Department of Justice.
Identity Theft Penalty Enhancement Act (PDF, 48 KB)
This Act establishes penalties for aggravated identity theft.
Hot Links
Use Our Materials In Your Community
The President's Identity Theft Task Force
2006 Identity Theft Survey Report
Test Your Knowledge about Identity Theft – Take the OnGuard Online Quiz
Key Publications
Taking Charge: What To Do if Your Identity is Stolen (PDF 1MB)
Safeguarding Your Child's Future (PDF 1MB)
To Buy or Not To Buy: Identity Theft Spawns New Products and Services To Help Minimize Risk (PDF 229KB)How To Plan and Host Protect Your Identity Days Kit (PDF 6MB)
Information Compromise and the Risk of Identity Theft: Guidance for Your Business
(PDF 152KB)
Protecting Personal Information: A Guide for Business (PDF 3.47MB)