Measuring identity theft and identity fraud

Identity theft and fraud are an increasing concern to consumers who interact with online businesses routinely. This paper presents a process-oriented model of consumer identity theft and fraud, and reports on a 2008 survey of Canadian consumers. Results are reported in standard categories of fraud: credit card, existing accounts, new accounts, and other fraud. We found that 20% of participants have stopped or reduced online shopping, and 9% have stopped or reduced online banking activities. These findings are of concern to business and government since, if consumers stop doing business online, the productivity benefits of e-business will not be realised. Copyright © 2010 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.