Security News > 2023 > August > Surge in identity crime victims reporting suicidal thoughts

The surge in victims of identity scams is likely caused by many different things, she noted, including: the sheer volume of online interactions the public conducts daily, the shift to digital-only transactions, the growing complexity of attacks, the availability of low-cost tools accessible to criminals, and the accessibility of identity information and personal data.

Based on the survey, a growing number of identity crime victims who contacted the ITRC shared experiencing suicidal thoughts.

The report also revealed that 41% of ITRC victims and 69% of general consumers experienced identity crime more than once, and a growing number of victims reported increased monetary losses compared to previous years.

"The fact that 16 percent of identity crime victims thought it's easier to end their life than try to recover from an identity crime says as much about the lack of concern and support for identity crime victims as it does the victims themselves."

"The language used when talking with victims and when talking ABOUT victims, particularly by the media and many cyber experts, can create more shame and embarrassment. From comments like 'what's the big deal, it's not as bad as violent crime' to statements about victims being 'duped' and 'falling for' creates an environment where victims feel at fault and invalidated," Velasquez noted.

"The experience of identity crime victimization can be vastly different for any given victim. We recommend that victims seek assistance quickly to ensure they are taking the correct steps in the proper order. It's monumentally important that recovery plans meet the needs of the unique individual," Velasquez concluded.

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/08/23/identity-theft-victims/