Identity Theft: Is Impersonation A Crime?

Close examination of criminal impersonation laws has become a necessary evil due to a rise in identity theft cases nationwide. The laws surrounding criminal impersonation differ by jurisdiction, with varied state and federal laws both in place.

In New York State, for instance, criminal impersonation is only committed if an individual impersonates a real person “with intent to obtain a benefit or to injure or defraud another.”  Therefore, if an individual falsely impersonates a fictitious person, it’s not considered to be an actual crime.

However, most states have laws regarding the impersonation of a public official.  Depending on the jurisdiction in question, the public official does not necessarily need to actually exist.

For more information on criminal impersonation, click here.