Identity theft is a complex crime that involves the theft of someone’s personal information that is used for another person’s gain. This crime is aggressively prosecuted in the state of Colorado, and anyone who is convicted can face serious consequences. For this reason, it’s important to learn about the different types of identity theft so you know when you could be charged with a crime. Here are some of the most common forms of identity theft:
Financial Identity Theft
This is by far the most common type of identity theft. Financial identity theft occurs when a victim’s personal information is used for the defendant’s financial gain. For example, the defendant may be accused of stealing the victim’s credit card information and using it to make purchases for himself. Financial identity theft can also involve stealing a person’s information in order to open up new credit card accounts in his name.
Medical Identity Theft
This type of identity theft crime is committed when the defendant steals the victim’s personal information and uses it to obtain medical treatment, prescription medications, or any other type of medical service. For example, someone who commits this crime could be accused of stealing the victim’s health insurance information and using it to see a healthcare provider.
Tax-Related Identity Theft
Similar to financial identity theft, defendants who commit tax-related identity theft are motivated by financial gain. This crime involves illegally obtaining someone’s personal information and using it to file fraudulent tax returns in order to obtain large tax refunds from the IRS. This type of identity theft may not be as well known as others, but it is becoming increasingly common.
Criminal Identity Theft
Some defendants are accused of committing criminal identity theft, which occurs when someone provides law enforcement with another person’s information. An example of this type of identity theft would be giving a law enforcement officer another person’s ID when you are pulled over for speeding. Your name would not be attached to the ticket since it would go on the victim’s driving record, which means you would benefit by not having to deal with the consequences of speeding.
Have you been accused of committing identity theft? If so, contact Reisch Law Firm today. Identity theft is a very serious crime, so you will need our experienced criminal defense attorneys on your side. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
