identity theft

American  

1. the fraudulent appropriation and use of someone's identifying or personal data or documents, as a credit card.

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identity theft British  

noun

1. the crime of setting up and using bank accounts and credit facilities fraudulently in another person's name without his or her knowledge

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Etymology

Origin of identity theft

1995–2000

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

identity theft

On a practical level, he added, the data sharing increased the risk of breaches that can open law-abiding citizens up to identity theft.

From Salon ● Aug. 15, 2026

Additionally, we had a rare opportunity with this round of coverage to speak directly to an identity theft victim and an active facilitator.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 14, 2026

Experts have said that doing so can expose children to unforeseen risks such as identity theft, fraud or impede their privacy as they grow up.

From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026

Eligible shoppers can also receive a year of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 27, 2026

Someone in the back makes a crack about identity theft.

From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan