What is Employment identity theft characterized by?

Employment identity theft is characterized by a fraudster impersonating a person to secure a job. This type of fraud involves using someone else's personal information, such as their Social Security number or other identifying details, to apply for employment fraudulently. By posing as the victim, the fraudster may gain access to a position within a company, potentially leading to financial gain through employment benefits, wages, or other compensation.

The focus here is on the deceptive act directly related to employment, where the fraudster seeks to present themselves as the victim for the purpose of obtaining a job. This not only harms the victim whose identity is stolen but can also complicate the hiring processes for businesses that inadvertently employ the fraudster. Knowing this definition helps reinforce the challenges associated with identity theft and illustrates the serious consequences of such criminal behavior.