Identity Theft Basics
What is identity theft?
When someone uses another person’s personal information without permission to commit fraud or other crimes.
What does the term “phishing” mean?
Scammers sending fake emails or messages to steal personal information.
What is the purpose of the justice system?
To enforce laws, protect citizens, and ensure fairness.
What is a simple way to protect your online accounts?
Use strong, unique passwords.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
A felony is a serious crime with harsher punishment; a misdemeanor is less severe.
Name one common piece of information thieves steal to commit identity theft.
Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account information.
What kind of fraud involves making unauthorized purchases with someone else’s credit card?
Credit card fraud.
Who makes the final decision in a criminal trial?
The jury (or judge in a bench trial).
What should you do with old financial documents before throwing them away?
Shred them.
What does “sentence” mean in law?
The punishment given to someone found guilty of a crime.
What is the most common type of identity theft?
Credit card fraud.
What is “skimming”?
When criminals use a small device to steal card information from ATMs or gas pumps.
What does “due process” mean?
The legal right to fair treatment through the judicial system.
Why should you check your bank and credit card statements regularly?
To spot unauthorized transactions early.
What is probation?
A court-ordered period of supervision instead of jail time.
What is “dumpster diving” in identity theft?
When thieves go through trash to find personal information like bills or receipts.
What type of fraud occurs when someone files taxes using another person’s information?
Tax refund fraud.
What is the difference between civil law and criminal law?
Civil law deals with disputes between people; criminal law deals with crimes against the state.
What kind of network should you avoid using for online banking?
Public Wi-Fi.
What was the main idea behind the California Three Strikes Law?
Harsher penalties for repeat offenders after three serious crimes.
What should you do first if you suspect identity theft?
Contact your bank/credit card company and report it immediately, then file a police report and contact the FTC.
What is the difference between identity theft and identity fraud?
Theft is stealing someone’s information; fraud is using that stolen information for personal gain.
What is the “presumption of innocence”?
Every person is considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?
A security method requiring two forms of identification to access an account.
What are “white-collar crimes”?
Non-violent crimes committed for financial gain, like fraud or embezzlement.