Prevent Me if You Can

Abstract

Frank W. Abagnale is probably the best known identity thief and author of Catch Me if You Can and The Art of the Steal. Mr. Abagnale, now fully-reformed and a leading expert on identity theft protection, described identity theft as the crime of the 21st century [Source 1: p 292]. This article examines the scope and scale of identity theft and suggests practical tips (including tips from Mr. Abagnale himself) to how consumers can, and must, protect themselves. The Conundrum. As attorneys, we are familiar with a multitude of laws, rules, regulations and certifications that are designed to protect personal data and prevent identity fraud.1 We are aware of the supra-national, national and local courts, regulators, law enforcement agencies and NGOs that enforce this multitude. We review companies' privacy policies, terms and conditions and data security policies, intended to provide comfort to consumers that their data will be secure and used only for limited purposes.