The lived experiences of familial identity theft victims

PurposeFamilial identity theft occurs when a family member steals the identity of another family member and is a problem in the USA. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of familial identity theft victims.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative study was framed using a phenomenological approach. Interview data were obtained from a purposive sample of nine participants. Data were analyzed using constant comparison, classical content analysis and word count.FindingsKey findings included “Offender Mental Health Concerns” and “Victim Emotional Effects” were the most salient themes as they were present for all participants. Other themes included “Polyvictimization,” “Recovery” and “Relational Impacts.”Research limitations/implicationsData were collected from mostly highly educated, White, married individuals who had their identity stolen by a parent. Findings could inform the development of survey items that measure impacts of familial identity theft victimization.Practical implicationsFindings indicate familial identity theft victims often seek support from mental health professionals; therefore, these findings could be used to develop or enhance existing training for these professionals.Social implicationsFindings from this study provide needed insights on an often-overlooked problem that can have serious financial, emotional and relational consequences for victims and their families.Originality/valueThis is the first known qualitative study on familial identity theft victimization that used methodological triangulation to determine findings.