According to the US Department of Justice, what do identity theft and identity fraud typically involve?

Using personal data for economic gain is the hallmark of both identity theft and identity fraud according to the US Department of Justice. This practice typically involves an unauthorized individual acquiring and using someone else's personal information—such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, and bank account information—to commit financial crimes. The focus is on the economic aspect, where the perpetrator aims to benefit financially, often resulting in financial loss and damage to the victim's credit and identity.

While the other options may reflect various aspects of identity issues, they do not encompass the primary motive and activity characteristic of identity theft and fraud. Obtaining a license may be part of identity fraud when someone misuses personal information to get a fake ID, but it is not the central activity. Creating fake identities represents a method used in some cases of identity fraud, but it again does not capture the overarching objective of economic gain. Stealing physical assets—while a crime in its own right—doesn't directly relate to the misuse of personal data, which is the crux of identity theft and fraud.