The Physical Toll of Identity Theft Victimization: An Analysis of the National Crime Victimization Survey

• In Event: White Collar Victimization: Fraud, Identity Theft and Exploitation

Abstract

The present study investigates the physical consequences of suffering an identity-related criminal victimization. In addition to reporting the extent and nature of these consequences, the present research also examines the potential determinants of the physical harms victims suffer following identity theft. To do so, data from an analytic sample of 2,299 victims of identity theft from the U.S. National Crime Victimization Survey are analyzed. Results suggest that identity theft victimization produces consequences beyond the financial. Physical ailments and new medical conditions are often reported as a result of the crime. Further, several features of the incident were significantly related to whether victims experienced these harms, as were personal characteristics of the victim. Overall, the results of the present research suggest that responses to identity-related victimizations – beyond financial remedies – be considered by victims, practitioners, and policy makers.

Authors

• Ryan Randa, Sam Houston State University

• Brad Reyns, Weber State University