Identity theft occurs when someone acquires your personal identification, including your name, date of birth, address, and social security number with the intent to impersonate you in a criminal matter. Most often, the perpetrator is either attempting to avoid a pending investigation or prosecution or to gain access to your finances and/or possessions. The internet has become a breeding ground for identity theft as it is fairly easy to hack into a computer and collect someone's personal information.

Perpetrators of identity theft often obtain credit card information, access to financial accounts, and other personal information that allows them to purchase homes, lease cars, and create an entire lifestyle by financially impersonating you.

Identity theft is a crime that often leaves an indelible mark on your life and can prevent you from moving forward financially. Your credit rating can be adversely affected, compromising your ability to lease or buy a house, a car or to receive approval for a college loan.

As a victim, you have access to resources under the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act, including access to a clearinghouse of information and hotline to help you interact with agencies charged with helping you to minimize the impact of identity theft. Telephone operators are available to help you resolve credit-related problems created by the misuse of your identity. The information taken by the operators is also placed in a national database that police agencies use to prevent future identity theft.

To learn more about identity theft and its prevention, please visit www.idtheft.gov or call the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Identity Theft hotline at 1-877-ID-Theft (438-4338). Also, the FTC has a 68-page brochure available called "Taking Charge, What to Do If Your Identity Is Stolen".

The Essex County Prosecutor's Office of Victim Witness Advocacy can help coordinate the services you need as your case progresses through the criminal justice process. Contact the Office at 973-621-4687 for more information. You may also contact the Essex County Prosecutor's Office Financial Crimes Unit at 973-621-7220 for additional information.