Technique

Criminal Identity Theft

Also known as: Criminal Record Identity Theft, Arrest Identity Fraud

EXPLOITATION

Providing stolen identity information to law enforcement during arrest or citation, creating criminal records under the victim's name.

Common attack flows

How it fits in a scam

This technique shows up duringEXPLOITATION

Before

After

This is often where the scam ends.

Defense

How to defend against this

How to spot it

  • Arrest warrant issued in your name for crimes you didn't commit
  • Background check reveals criminal history you don't have
  • Denied employment or housing due to unknown criminal record
  • Police stop you based on outstanding warrant you're unaware of
  • Court summons for cases you know nothing about

Tools you can use

Further reading