Tilson submits motion on identity theft

David Tilson, MP for Dufferin-Caledon, submitted a motion to the clerk of the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (ETHI), April 20, requesting that the committee prepare a comprehensive study and report to the House of Commons on the increasing crime of identity theft.

Tilson defined identity theft as the unauthorized collection and use of personal information that is used for criminal purposes. In 2005, PhoneBusters reported 11,231 identity theft complaints in Canada, resulting in $8,575,593.98 in losses, making this crime the fastest growing form of consumer fraud in North America.

An individual's name, date of birth, address, credit card, Social Insurance Number (SIN), and other personal identification numbers can be fraudulently used to open credit card and bank accounts, redirect mail, establish cellular phone service, rent vehicles, equipment, or accommodation, and even to secure employment.

"Identity theft can happen to anyone and knows no geographic boundaries. The problem has been raised by my constituents as an increasing concern for them, and therefore, I believe it's important for our committee to study it and to report our findings to the House of Commons, to see how we can best prevent Canadians from this despicable form of crime," Tilson said.