Identity Theft and Its Prevention
Identity theft involves assuming another person’s identity. The perpetrator intentionally deceives a third party by using someone else’s personal information, credentials, or other identifying details.
This could involve impersonating someone on social media, making purchases on installment plans, or ordering goods or magazine subscriptions in someone else’s name.
How to Recognize Identity Theft and What to Do if You Are a Victim
Identity theft is not punishable under criminal law unless it causes financial loss or more than minor harm to the victim. Financial damage might arise if the victim has to spend time and resources clarifying the situation. Harm also includes situations where there’s no financial loss but the victim still experiences significant inconvenience.
Not all cases qualify as identity theft, especially if there’s no risk of deception. For example, if it’s clear that a post is a joke or satire, or if someone uses a name or alias to remain anonymous without intending to deceive, it is not identity theft.
Identity Theft Often Involves Additional Crimes
Identity theft became punishable on September 4, 2015, and can result in fines. It is common for other crimes to accompany identity theft, and cases often only come to light when the stolen identity has been used to commit additional crimes.
Not all uses of someone else’s identity are punishable as identity theft; the offense may fall under other criminal statutes. This could involve fraud, forgery, defamation, or the dissemination of private information. It is crucial to report such incidents to the police, who will determine the appropriate classification for investigation.
The prosecutor decides, based on an evaluation, whether to pursue identity theft charges in court. This requires a report from the identity theft victim to the police and a preliminary investigation. Since it is a complainant offense, the victim must also request that the perpetrator be prosecuted.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Identity Theft and Reduce the Risk of Related Crimes?
Preventing identity theft is not always easy, but you can take steps to reduce the risk.
- Do not give your personal ID number or other personal information to strangers. Be cautious with individuals claiming to be telemarketers, bank employees, or police officers. They don’t need your ID number or private details. Banks never ask for online banking credentials over the phone.
- Carefully consider the websites you share your personal information with.
- Avoid storing passwords and PIN codes in places accessible to others. For example, do not store your credit card PIN in the same location as your card.
- Ensure that your accounts and payment cards have withdrawal and payment limits. Security and usage limits can, for example, prevent transactions abroad. Regularly check your statements to make sure there are no unauthorized charges.
- You may wish to check with your insurance provider about identity theft insurance options.
- If you feel at a particular risk of identity theft, you can request a restriction on data sharing from the Digital and Population Data Services Agency. Discuss any potential drawbacks of these restrictions with the relevant organizations.
- Keep your devices’ software and anti-virus protection up to date. Regular updates are essential.
- Do not dispose of documents containing personal information in paper recycling bins or other places where they can easily fall into the wrong hands.
- A locked mailbox prevents others from accessing your mail.
(Original Source: Tietoturva ry, Pyry Heikkinen)
The Consequences of Identity Theft for the Victim
It is essential to understand identity theft as a crime that can cause significant distress, anxiety, and a sense of insecurity for the victim. The repercussions of identity theft can last for a long time, and recovering may require individual support. The situation may feel overwhelming because the victim may not know what has been or could be done with their stolen identity. Resolving and minimizing the damages is often time-consuming and challenging, compounded by the uncertainty and stress caused by the incident.
Identity theft and related crimes committed under a stolen identity, such as harassment and fraud, inflict both financial and psychological harm on the victim. In severe cases, a victim may suffer for years due to actions committed using their stolen identity. Victim Support Finland provides support and guidance for victims of identity theft.
How to Recognize Identity Theft and What to Do if You Are a Victim