identity theft

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Explanation of "Identity Theft"

Definition:Identity theft is when someone takes another person's personal information, like their name, social security number, or credit card number, without their permission. They use this information to pretend to be that person, usually to commit fraud or steal money.

Advanced Usage

In more advanced discussions, you might encounter terms related to identity theft, such as "identity fraud," which refers to the broader category of crimes involving the misuse of personal information.

Word Variants

• Identity (noun): The characteristics or qualities that make a person who they are.
• Thief (noun): A person who steals.

Different Meanings

While "identity theft" specifically refers to the crime of stealing personal information, "identity" can also refer to a person’s sense of self or who they are in a broader, psychological context.

Synonyms

• Identity fraud
• Personal information theft
• Impersonation (in some contexts)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to identity theft, but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Steal someone's thunder" (to take credit for someone else's idea or work, not related to identity theft but involves taking something that doesn't belong to you).
  • "Take on a false identity" (to pretend to be someone else).

Conclusion

Understanding "identity theft" is important in today's world where personal information is often shared online.

Academic

Noun

1. the co-option of another person's personal information (e.g., name, Social Security number, credit card number, passport) without that person's knowledge and the fraudulent use of such knowledge