Identity Theft

In general terms, identity theft is the misappropriation and fraudulent use of a person’s personal or confidential information.
Examples of  personal, confidential information are:  SSN, drivers license number, names, addresses, dates of birth, credit card numbers, PINS, bank account numbers.

Electronic Fund Transfer Act – offers  protections for persons using electronic means (such as a debit card) to debit or credit an account.

Fair Credit Reporting Act – requires that a person’s credit record only be provided for legitimate business needs
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) – requires employers to protect confidential medical records which may contain an employee’s identifying information.

Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act – makes it a crime to transfer or use another’s personal information with the intent to commit, aid or abet in any unlawful activity.

Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) – requires employers to take reasonable measures in disposing of an employee’s credit report obtained as part of the employer’s hiring process. This can also include background checks on applicants which are obtained by the employer regarding the applicants and employees.