What characterizes online identity theft?

Online identity theft is characterized by the unlawful acquisition and use of someone's personal information without their consent, typically with the intent to commit fraud or other illegal activities. This might involve stealing personal details such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, or credit card details, which the perpetrator can then use to impersonate the victim, make unauthorized purchases, or open accounts in their name.

This practice is a significant violation of privacy and security, as it can lead to financial losses, damage to credit ratings, and can take considerable time and effort for victims to restore their identity and rectify the situation. The focus here is on the illegitimate actions that breach the trust and security expected by individuals regarding their personal information.

Other options do not encapsulate the essence of online identity theft. For example, using personal information for artistic projects does not imply any illegal intent or unlawful action. Creating multiple social media profiles can be harmless or not directly related to identity theft unless those profiles are impersonations. Sharing one’s own personal data is usually a voluntary act and does not include misappropriation or illicit use by another party.