As the reach of the Internet has expanded exponentially over the past decade, so has the prevalence of a particular type of crime: Identity fraud. This completely revised edition explores the various forms identity theft can take, from stealing credit cards and social security numbers and more, and offers guidelines to minimize the chances of becoming a victim of identity theft, and the recourse one has if they do fall victim to this serious crime. Identity theft is the illegal use of another's personal identifying information, such as the individual's name and social security number, without their knowledge or consent, to commit some type of financial fraud. This almanac also discusses the trends associated with the serious problem of identity theft, the various ways in which identity theft is accomplished, and the interrelationship between identity theft and the individual's right to privacy. State and federal legislation that has been passed in order to combat identity theft, as well as pertinent case law involving identity theft, is also examined. The Appendix provides sample documents, applicable statutes, and other pertinent information and data. The Legal Almanac Series consists of over 75 handy guides for the lay person on all aspects of the law. Each volume includes an overview of the topic followed by chapters on the major issues in that subject. Each volume contains an Appendix containing several primary source documents as well as practical forms and checklists. A Glossary defines any technical terms used in the text.