What is identity theft?

If someone has created an account with your picture under your name and to upload or share things which make you look bad, or to insult or abuse other people, then you are being subjected to identity theft.

This can be the case on social media, such as Facebook, X, Snapchat, etc., for example, if the impersonator has created a false profile in your name, and gives your friends the impression that you have posted these things yourself.

Impersonators can also create accounts on dating platforms using your name and picture, with the result that you are then contacted by strangers out of the blue.

Your account may be hijacked, either by criminals who have obtained your password from a data leak, for example, or because your ex has pressured you into giving him access to your account. Or perhaps bullies from your school class have guessed your password. You can find some tips on how to create secure passwords here: Using digital services securely

Likewise, if someone has gained access to your private data to order goods or services online using your name, email address and date of birth, this is also known as identity theft or identity abuse.

Identity theft often occurs in connection with cyberbullying and cyberstalking, and can have consequences under criminal law.