Unlike your fingerprints, which is impossible to copy, your personal data especially your Social Security number, your bank account or credit card number, your telephone number, and other identifyable data can be used, if they fall into the wrong hands. In the United States and Canada, for example, many people have reported that unauthorized persons have taken funds out of their bank or financial accounts and in the worst cases, took over their identities, obtaining huge debts and committing crimes while using the victims's names. For unknowing business person, this transgression happens after the theft has successfully caused damage. Identity theft law covers all bounds of these illegal activities through emails, mails and other transaction cards, brokerage, insurance, and other documentations involving membership. As imposed, identity theft law could penalize villains from 15 to 30 years of imprisonment depending on the degree of fraudulent nuisance done, excluding revoked privileges and forfeiture of assets. If a culprit gets into hands-on control of one s number, it could be a start of a cycle of indefinite crimes against the legitimate owner, would lead the poor victim and his family into rubbles of chaos that can t easily be repaired. A ruined reputation because of unprecedented debts thru malicious intent of someone would ruin anyone s credibility, and totally, his life. Try also to file a complaint with the FTC that will help the agency learn more about identity theft and the problems that victims face on such circumstances. This will be able to help in formulating better solutions to the increasing identity theft problem. Awareness is the key to preventing identity theft. Unfortunately, carelessly giving away your social security number or other sensitive information may put you at risk for identity theft. A database with all your information may be sold to another entity that may use your data to make purchases in your stead without you knowing. It's easy enough if the criminals who commit identity theft will make purchases on your existing credit cards and such. Questions From an Identity Theft Victim Identity theft is a crime in which the imposter obtains key pieces of information such as Social Security and driver's license numbers to obtain credit, merchandise and services in the name of the victim. The victim is left with a ruined credit history and the time-consuming and complicated task of regaining financial health.