PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Mar 25, 1998
Identity Piracy Act of 1998 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit identity fraud. Imposes penalties upon anyone who in interstate or foreign commerce, knowingly and with intent to deceive or defraud: (1) obtains or transfers, or possesses or uses, any personal identifier, identification device, personal information or data, or other document or means of identification of any other entity or person; (2) assumes or uses the identity of any other entity or person; or (3) attempts or conspires with another person to commit such offense. Authorizes the court to order the defendant to make restitution to any victim, which may include payment for costs, including attorney's fees, incurred by any victim in clearing any credit history or rating relating to the victim, as well as costs incurred in any civil or administrative proceeding required to clear any debt, lien, or other obligation arising as a result of the defendant's activity. Authorizes the United States Secret Service to investigate any such offense, subject to the terms of an agreement to be entered into by the Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney General. Includes within the definition of "contraband" (subject to forfeiture) specified equipment pertaining to identity fraud. Directs the Secretary to: (1) collect and maintain certain information and statistical data relating to identity fraud; and (2) complete a comprehensive study of the extent, nature, and causes of identity fraud and the threats posed to the Nation's financial institutions and payment systems and consumer safety and privacy; and (3) submit to the Congress specific legislative recommendations.
People & committees
Rep. DeLauro, Rosa L. [D-CT-3] · D–CT
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Aviation.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E512-513)
Referred to House Transportation and Infrastructure
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to House Judiciary
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Aug 21, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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