Law Enforcement Resources Used to Solve Identity Theft

Law enforcement can combat identity theft by working with the technology industry.

Technological advances have resulted in increased instances of identity theft. Identity theft can happen online, at an ATM or through a wireless device. Criminals are becoming increasingly savvy, and law enforcement has responded with technology to combat these crimes. Criminals typically use "skimming devices" to glean personal information. Police are able to trace the components of these devices to determine who purchased them and where. The high-tech industry has also helped police crack complex identity theft rings.

Examination of Skimming Devices

A skimming device is any device used by identity thieves to obtain personal identity information. Hidden cameras, microprocessors, ATM skimmers or modified point-of-sale (POS) terminals are all examples of skimming devices used to "skim" information. These devices are comprised of multiple pieces and parts, all of which are typically purchased in bulk by the individuals manufacturing these illegal devices. Police are able to disassemble these devices to find a name, logo or manufacturing code. Once an identifying mark is located, police can trace it back to where it was purchased and gain the identity of the purchaser.

Demographics of Skimmers

Highly-trained technological professionals can examine a skimming device in order to profile the type of person who likely pieced it together. Forensic engineers can usually determine the educational level and technological proficiency of the designer. Examiners can even tap into clues as to where the thief received his education based upon the design of the skimming device and its components. In addition, all skimming devices are equipped with mini-software, called firmware, which is available on the market for anyone to purchase. Forensic engineers can extract the firmware and learn its origination.

Facial Recognition Programs

Identity thieves have been known to use identification from deceased individuals to obtain new drivers' licenses. Law enforcement has been able to catch onto this practice with facial identification resources that compare the cardholder's photo to previous photographs on file matching the name. Therefore, if a thief attempts to get a driver's license with the identity of a deceased person, the software will match the applicant's facial features with those of the deceased individual's last license photo to determine if they match.

Federal Trade Commission Resources

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides a site for law enforcement officials to access the latest information and updates about identity theft around the nation. The site provides notification of any federal or state changes in laws affecting identity theft or the investigation of identity theft crimes. In addition, the site provides assistance for helping victims, including what to do once their identity has been stolen.

References

• Police Chief Magazine: "Year of Preventing Identity Crime"; Kevin McQuiggin; May 2011
• Vancouver Sun: "Facial Recognition Catching Identity Thieves"; Kelly Sinoski, February 2011
• Federal Trade Commission: Resources for ID Theft