The rise of the identity theft

A study from the research firm Gartner suggested that there is a sharp increase of identity theft related incidents since 2003.

Facts:

• 15 millions Americans were identity theft victims in mid 2005 - mid2006.
• The average loss of a case of identity theft was US$ 3,257 (2006) and US$ 1,408 (2005).
• Only 61% of the loss fund was recovered in 2006.

Means of identity thefts:

• Internet auctions
• Non-regulated money transmittal systems
• Impersonate lottery contests
• Others.

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