What is the primary activity involved in traditional identity theft?

The primary activity involved in traditional identity theft focuses on using an individual's personal information to impersonate them. This typically includes accessing sensitive data such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or credit card information. Once the perpetrator has this information, they can engage in various fraudulent activities, including opening new accounts, making purchases, and even filing tax returns in the victim's name.

By impersonating the victim, the fraudster can create significant financial and emotional distress for the individual whose identity has been stolen. This form of identity theft is distinct from schemes that might involve creating fictitious names or synthetic identities since those tactics often rely on a combination of real and fabricated information for different fraudulent purposes. The essence of traditional identity theft lies in the direct impersonation of an existing individual rather than the creation of new identities.