identity theft

noun

: the illegal use of someone else's personal information (such as a Social Security number) especially in order to obtain money or credit

Examples of identity theft in a Sentence

How can we protect ourselves against identity theft?

Recent Examples on the Web

Since the measure does not specify what the number needs to be, Kemp and other opponents have raised concerns that some people will use their Social Security number, exposing them to identity theft. — Grace Hase, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2026

Our report noted that nearly 6 million people may face phishing or identity theft risks after the breach. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026

She is expected to be extradited back to the United States to face fraud, identity theft and kidnapping charges in Nevada. — Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026

All settlement class members will also receive six months of Equifax Complete credit monitoring, including credit alerts and up to $500,000 in identity theft insurance coverage, without filing a claim. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 31 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for identity theft

• bereft
• cleft
• deft
• heft
• left

Legal Definition

identity theft

see also:

theft