A new kind of theft has overtaken traditional forms of stealing, and often it has much more devastating and lasting consequences. Since the early 1990s, thieves have figured out how to rob Americans of their identities, impersonating them to commit fraud or theft.

Identity theft involves acquiring key pieces of someone’s personal identifying information -- such as name, address, date of birth, or Social Security number -- in order to impersonate them. This information enables the thief to commit numerous forms of fraud, which may include appropriating the victim’s financial accounts, opening new bank accounts, purchasing homes and automobiles, subscribing to utility and phone service, securing loans or credit cards, and stealing Social Security benefits.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which tracks these practices, has cited identity theft as the fastest growing crime in the United States. In 2003, the FTC reported that more than 10 million Americans were victims, at a cost of $53 billion. Last year, the FTC ranked Maryland 11th per capita in the nation in the number of identity theft complaints.

The FTC and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) are charged with investigating and prosecuting many of these crimes. Because many thieves gain access to personal financial information through the mail, the USPS recommends the following precautions: do not leave incoming mail in your mailbox overnight or on weekends; deposit outgoing mail into USPS collection boxes; shred unwanted documents containing personal data; and review your credit report annually.

These steps are particularly important for senior citizens, who often receive purchases by mail. Sadly, that makes them easy prey for mail fraud. To make matters worse, these criminals often sell their ill-gotten mail lists to other criminals, resulting in the repeated victimization of many seniors.

The increase in internet fraud cases is also a growing concern. The FTC reported that internet-related complaints accounted for 55% of all fraud reports in 2003, up from 45% in 2002. The FTC recommends taking the following steps to protect yourself from internet-related fraud: always use anti-virus software; always use a firewall; and keep your software up-to-date.

Congress needs to strengthen federal laws to protect consumers against fraud. As a member of the House Social Security Subcommittee, I have participated in numerous hearings examining the issue of identity theft. In June, we heard testimony from a Maryland businesswoman who spent more than a year restoring her credit rating after her identity was stolen.

The Social Security Number Privacy and Identity Theft Prevention Act, which I have co-sponsored, would restrict the display and use of Social Security numbers, prohibit the sale of SSNs, limit issuance of replacement cards, and set criminal and civil penalties for violations. I have also cosponsored the Social Security Protection Act, which would provide greater protections for some of our most vulnerable citizens -- mentally impaired Social Security and SSI beneficiaries who are unable to manage their own benefits. I hope Congress would pass both bills this year.

Marylanders who have an identity theft or fraud complaint may contact the FTC at or 1-877-FTC-HELP. The FTC also has information available to help consumers avoid fraud, deception and unfair business practices. The USPS Inspection Service is the law enforcement arm of the USPS. You may also contact the USPS Mail Fraud Complaint Center at or by calling 1-800-372-8347.

It could take years to recover from identity theft and fraud. Be an aware consumer, and take every precaution to protect yourself from thieves who want to use your identity for profit.

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