New laws to crack down on Facebook identity fraud
Posted
The Federal Government will create new crimes to prosecute identity fraud arising from the spread of information on social networking websites such as Facebook.
The laws will be introduced this week to crack down on identity fraud.
Home Affairs Minister Bob Debus says the crime is on the rise and internet users should be cautious.
"If you place personal information on a site like Facebook, then you can provide enough information for perpetrators to steal an identity," he said.
"It's not only individuals that commit these crimes, organised crimes, or organised groups are becoming increasingly involved.
"Model laws wil be introduced which will include new offences for misusing identification to commit an offence or having equipment capable of making false information.
"Those charges will help police in all jurisdictions to more effectively investigate and prosecute offences."
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