Understanding Identity Theft and Its Impact

Identity theft is a crime that involves someone accessing and using another person's personal information for financial gain, and it differs significantly from credit card fraud. Credit card fraud occurs when a criminal uses someone's credit card details to make unauthorized purchases, which is more straightforward. In contrast, identity theft can take many forms, often impacting individuals far longer and more deeply, as perpetrators can use someone’s entire identity for various illicit purposes. Services like LifeLock are vital in helping victims navigate this complex landscape by monitoring for threats that extend beyond simple credit card issues.