What does the term 'identity theft' mean?

• A. Public sharing of personal information
• B. Authorization of personal identity for fraud
• C. Unauthorized use of someone else's personal information to commit fraud
• D. Legitimate use of another person's identity with consent

Answer: (C)

The term 'identity theft' specifically refers to the unauthorized use of someone else's personal information, such as Social Security numbers, banking information, or credit card details, to commit fraud. This criminal activity often involves stealing someone's identity to open accounts, make purchases, or engage in illegal activities without the victim's consent or knowledge.

In contrast, public sharing of personal information does not imply malicious intent or unauthorized use; it involves willingly sharing one's data. Authorization of personal identity for fraud suggests that consent is involved, which contradicts the nature of identity theft. Finally, the legitimate use of another person's identity with consent is also not identity theft since it implies that permission has been granted, differentiating this concept from the deceptive practices inherent in identity theft. Thus, the correct answer encompasses the inherent dishonest and unauthorized actions that characterize identity theft.