Large-Scale Identity Theft Scheme Uncovered

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Large-Scale Identity Theft Scheme Uncovered
Dec 19, 2006 News Release
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested 1,282 illegal alien workers as part of an ongoing worksite enforcement investigation into immigration violations and a massive identity theft scheme that has victimized large numbers of U.S. citizens and lawful U.S. residents.

ICE and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have identified hundreds of U.S. citizens whose stolen identities have been used by these aliens and have reported being victimized by this identity theft scheme. ICE and the FTC are working to identify other victims who may be unaware that their identities have been stolen.

"Violations of our immigration laws and privacy rights often go hand in hand," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. "Enforcement actions like this one protect the privacy rights of innocent Americans while striking a blow against illegal immigration."

"This investigation has uncovered a disturbing front in the war against illegal immigration. We believe that the genuine identities of possibly hundreds of U.S. citizens are being stolen or hijacked by criminal organizations and sold to illegal aliens in order to gain unlawful employment in this country. Combating this burgeoning problem is one of ICE's highest priorities," said Assistant Secretary for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Julie L. Myers.

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