An Empirical Analysis of Identity Theft Determinants in the U.S.

This study finds that ID theft rates tend to be an increasing function of the unemployment rate and the proportion of the population concentrated in urban areas, and a decreasing function of the relative amount of resources devoted to laws enforcement and the percentage of individuals who claim a religious affiliation. We also find ID theft to be an increasing function of the extent of undocumented immigration, internet access, on the other hand, is found to negatively impact the incidence of ID theft, underscoring the decisive role of immigration and economic variables as determinants of ID theft. Educational attainment in the U.S. does not seem to be a factor.