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'Ghosting' allows ID thief to hide – as someone else | LifeLock ...

Now that the jury has reached a verdict in the Casey Anthony trial, social media sites have blown up, with users posting their views on the outcome. Many of those who posted expressed outrage at the verdict, saying they felt Anthony was guilty, comparing this case to the infamous O.J. Simpson case.

Many of the posts on social media sites, as well as several blog posts, express questions about what Anthony will do now that she’s been acquitted of her daughter’s death. One blogger wrote that Anthony may as well dye her hair and move to another state. “Her life, as she knew it before, is over,” he wrote.

Although the drama may not be the same or as intense, there are identity thieves who do just that – they steal the identity of another person and assume that person’s life. This is called “ghosting.”

When a thief takes on the identity of another person, the victim usually isn’t around to fight for themselves; this type of identity theft targets the deceased. Usually, the thief targets someone about the same age and physically similar.

The purpose of ghosting is not to obtain false identification – it’s used to take over a person’s life that’s already in existence. This type of theft is based on the belief that government agencies that are separate don’t share or exchange information, therefore a thief can obtain benefits from the use of the deceased person’s information without detection.

Unlike other forms of identity theft, in which a thief works to squeeze quick profits from a single stolen identity and then moves on to the next victim, a “ghoster” often actually seeks to maintain a good credit rating within his new identity.

While Anthony certainly has not committed ghosting, one thing is true – getting her life back on track will not be an easy task. This is the case, also, for identity theft victims.

But remember, you don’t have to go it alone. LifeLock can help. Call them today. Receive 30 days free and get a 10 percent discount on enrollment with the LifeLock Promo Code “Defense.