Identity Theft: The Importance of Prosecuting on Behalf of Victims

• In Event: Unveiling the Digital Underworld: Exploring Identity Theft, Social Media Privacy Paradox, and AI's Influence on Cybercrime

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to raise awareness for those involved in CJ to better understand the potential life-changing consequences for those whose PII is used fraudulently. There must be a willingness to initiate legal proceedings against those who steal PII, use it to commit identity theft-based fraud, or fail to prevent unauthorized access to PII for which they have been entrusted. This study examines the impact of crimes involving PII and the need to increase legal actions for identity theft related crimes. Referencing a National Crime Victimization Survey, we analyze the resistance of many victims of identity theft crimes to notify the appropriate authorities. We address the reluctance of those within the criminal justice (CJ) system to initiate actions against those who commit identity theft crimes, especially the requirement to prove conclusively where stolen PII was acquired.

Authors

• Christopher S. Kayser, Cybercrime Analytics Inc.

• Charles Sinchul Back, University of Scranton

• Mike Toro-Alvarez, Southern Illinois University Carbondale