Identity thieves are individuals who illegally obtain and use someone else's personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or credit card information. They often use this information to commit fraud, make unauthorized purchases, or open accounts in the victim's name, leading to financial loss and damage to the victim's credit. To protect against identity theft, individuals should monitor their financial statements regularly, use strong passwords, and be cautious about sharing personal information online. Reporting any suspicious activity to authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), can help mitigate the effects of identity theft and assist in recovery efforts.