Identity Theft and Fraud [Research Brief]

Abstract

Center for Victim Research is assessing the state of the field in victim response specific crime types. This research brief summarizes findings from the larger synthesis on the research and practice evidence about identity theft and fraud victimization. Topics covered include prevalence of victims, risk factors, harms and consequences, victim services available (such hotlines, identity restoration, and preventive educational programs). As victim services for fraud victims are limited and states' victim compensation is often limited to violent crime victims, this brief also discusses options available to identity fraud victims through criminal and civil justice systems and private companies who offer credit monitoring and financial restoration. Policy, practice, and research implications are discussed for increasing public awareness and reporting, reducing harms associated with fraud, and for preventing future victimization. See also the full synthesis report, "Identity Theft and Fraud Victimization: What We Know about Identity Theft and Fraud Victims From Research- and Practice-Based Evidence," the bibliography of sources, and the related CVR webinar where results are discussed. (CVRL Abstract)