What is Identity Fraud?

Identity fraud means the fraudulent use of an individual's identifying information to commit crimes, unlawfully establish credit accounts, secure loans, or enter into contracts. Identity fraud occurs when a criminal uses personal information, such as a Social Security Number or credit card account number, to steal financial resources.

For example, Identity fraud may occur when someone steals personal information, opens credit card accounts in your name without permission, and charges merchandise to those accounts. Conversely, identity fraud does not occur when a credit card is simply stolen. Stealing one’s credit card may be consumer fraud, but is not identity fraud.

Identity fraud is a federal crime in the United States. According to the Federal Trade Commission, identity fraud is the most popular form of consumer fraud.

Do not fall victim to identity fraud - learn how thieves steal identities, steps you can take to reduce your risk, and the features Identity Restoration (IDR) coverage offered through State Farm Insurance.

• For further information on Identity Fraud visit the Federal Trade Commission web site on Identity Fraud.