Description: Identity theft is the act of impersonating another person to gain unauthorized access to information or systems. This phenomenon has become increasingly prevalent in the digital age, where personal information is easily accessible and can be manipulated. Identity theft can involve the use of fake documents, impersonation of social media accounts, or the use of social engineering techniques to deceive individuals and obtain sensitive data. The main characteristics of this act include the intent to deceive, the acquisition of undue benefits, and the use of methods that can range from simple to highly sophisticated. The relevance of identity theft lies in its impact on personal and business security, as well as trust in digital interactions. As technologies advance, so do the techniques used by criminals, making protection against identity theft a constant challenge for both individuals and organizations.
History: Identity theft has its roots in ancient practices of impersonation, but its modern evolution began with the rise of the Internet in the 1990s. With the digitization of personal data, criminals began to exploit vulnerabilities in security systems. Significant events include the T.J. Maxx case in 2007, where millions of credit card data were stolen, and the Equifax scandal in 2017, which exposed personal information of approximately 147 million people. These incidents highlighted the need to improve cybersecurity and data protection.
Uses: Identity theft is primarily used in financial fraud, where criminals access bank accounts or make credit purchases in the victim’s name. It is also employed in the theft of personal information to create false identities, which can be used to obtain benefits such as loans, insurance, or utility services. Additionally, in the digital realm, identity theft can be used to access corporate systems, compromising the security of business information.
Examples: A notable case of identity theft is that of Frank Abagnale, who, in the 1970s, impersonated a Pan Am pilot, doctor, and lawyer, successfully defrauding institutions and individuals. In the digital realm, the identity theft of actress Scarlett Johansson in 2011, where private photos were leaked after her phone was hacked, is another example of how identity theft can have serious consequences.
