Bill > H2207

This bill amends existing Massachusetts law, specifically Section 37E of Chapter 266, to strengthen protections against identity fraud by clarifying and expanding the definition of identity fraud and its penalties. The bill introduces new provisions that criminalize providing false or misleading identification to obtain someone's personal information with the intent to defraud, and also prohibits using another person's personal identifying information beyond its original authorized purpose to access records of their actions or transactions, also with fraudulent intent. For both offenses, individuals found guilty face penalties including fines up to $5,000, jail time of up to two and a half years, or both. Furthermore, convicted individuals will be required to make restitution to victims for financial losses, which can include costs associated with correcting credit history, resolving debts, lost wages, and attorney's fees. The bill also grants law enforcement officers the authority to arrest individuals without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe identity fraud has occurred.