The Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act
Dilemma of Identity Theft
According to many crime sources identity theft has become the fastest growing crime in the United States. With nearly ten million people being affected each year the crime can cost an individual thousands of dollars. There are a few simple steps that can be taken to deter the chances of identity theft, however there is no sure way to stop the crime. There are also many companies that offer identity theft insurance. Many professionals suggest identity theft insurance is the best deterrent to preventing identity theft. Everyone from private firms to the federal government have taken initiatives to preventing these horrible crimes.
Brief Intro
In 2007 Senator Patrick Leahy (VT) introduced Bill S.2168 labeled Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act of 2007. The bill was designed to increase the penalties to criminals who commit crimes related to identity theft. Along with an increase in the severity of the punishment, victims will be given the chance to be reimbursed for the money lost. There are ten sections to this new proposal and each section offers a new and improve change to the current laws. The new laws would make “hacking, malicious spyware, hacking, keylogging and cyber-extortion” a felony charge.
About the New Laws
Along with an increase in the severities of the penalties the federal government gains additional authority to prosecute criminals. Currently authorities are only allowed to pursue cases that our interstate or international. The new bill will allow investigators to pursue criminals that have broken laws within state lines. Not only will criminals within state be prosecuted, but there will be a new law that allows federal agents to prosecute for conspiracy to commit identity theft. That’s right, if someone shows enough intent to commit identity theft federal authorities’ posses the right to prosecute the individual to the full extent of the law.
Conclusion
The proposal has not been passed yet and there is no telling where it is headed. Changes could be made to the idea presented, which does happen with many bills going through Congress. Some people fear the federal government is taking too much power and fear it will not be possible to hunt down lost monies. Take the professionals advice and protect yourself with safe practices and with identity theft insurance.
Additional Resources
Why Are There Few Identity Theft Protection Laws?
Identity Thieves Pay the Piper
What is Identity Theft Insurance?
Identity Theft and Your Checkbook
Identity Theft Fact and Fiction
The Growing Problem of Medical Identity Theft
Will Identity Theft Insurance Help Pay For The Credit Repair Of An Identity Theft Victim?
