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Legislation to toughen penalties for identity theft


Almost 2,000 Tennessee consumers reported identity theft crimes last year according to the Federal Trade Commission.

U.S. Rep. John Tanner called those numbers “alarming” and recently introduced legislation to toughen penalties on identity thieves.

“We must take better action to let Americans know their personal information is sage and cannot be used against them,” he said. “The penalties should be tougher for those who steal the identities of innocent victims, then use that information to commit further crimes.”

Many identity thieves steal credit cards or apply for credit cards in their victims’ names, accumulate high unpaid balances or open back accounts in other peoples names’ and write bad checks. Tanner said falling victim to such crimes can result in negative credit ratings and years of pain and anguish.

“I am particularly concerned about how thieves can use other people's names and Social Security information to help commit acts of terrorism domestically and abroad,” the congressman said.

The legislation creates a separate crime of aggravated identity theft, setting tough penalties for anyone who uses the identity of another person with intent to commit federal offenses such as immigration violations, false citizenship crimes and acts of international or domestic terrorism.

It also makes it easier for prosecutors to prove identity theft. “Through this bill, we hope to make it clear that identity theft is a serious crime,” said Tanner.

Tanner represents Tennessee’s 8th Congressional District and serves on the House Ways and Means Committee.

“It can be costly and damaging to the victims and their families but also poses a threat to our nation's security.”

FTC officials say the best way for consumers to protect themselves from identity theft is to share their credit card or personal information only when dealing with companies they know and trust.

Consumers should regularly check their credit records and report any inaccurate information, Tanner added.

More information on identity theft prevention can be found on the congressman’s Web site, www.house.gov/tanner.

Tanner introduced the bill, HR858, with Reps. Lincoln Davis of Tennessee, Charlie Stenholm of Texas, Allen Boyd of Florida and Chris John of Louisiana, all members of the Blue Dog Coalition.

Tanner is a founder of the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of 34 moderate-to-conservative Democrats.