Puerto Rico Cracks Down on Identity Theft with New Birth Certificates
A Step Towards Eradicating Identity Theft
SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO - In an effort to combat identity theft and fraud, the government of Puerto Rico is introducing new birth certificates for its 3.9 million inhabitants starting July 1st.
The Problem with Identity Theft in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has been plagued by identity theft, with thousands of residents having their birth certificates stolen and used to make fraudulent passport applications. This problem has been particularly severe due to the island’s unique status as a US territory, where anyone born there is automatically a US citizen.
- Criminal gangs target Puerto Rico because the birth certificates can be sold on the black market for up to $10,000.
- The stolen certificates are used to create fake identities and access sensitive government documents.
A Recent Incident of Identity Theft
Three years ago, identity thieves broke into Faustino Fuentes School in Puerto Rico’s eastern coastline, stealing the birth certificates of 105 pupils. The school secretary, Ana Esquilin, recalled the traumatic experience:
“We had no idea what was happening until we received calls from people claiming to be our daughters,” she said. “It was devastating.”
US Department of State Study Reveals Extent of Identity Theft
According to a US Department of State study, 40% of fraudulent American passport applications made with birth certificates involve documents from Puerto Rico.
New Birth Certificates with Anti-Fraud Features
The new birth certificates have special anti-fraud properties, including:
- Watermarks
- Other security features that cannot be disclosed for security reasons
Under the new rules, organizations will no longer be able to keep multiple copies of birth certificates, reducing the risk of them falling into the wrong hands.
Concerns and Reactions
Some Puerto Ricans on the US mainland have expressed concerns about the change, saying it is an added burden. However, others welcome the move as a step towards eradicating identity theft. Latino Rights groups have also been critical of the change, arguing that it is another problem for Hispanics to deal with.
Secretary of State’s Response
Puerto Rico’s Secretary of State, Kenneth McClintock, dismissed concerns about discrimination:
“It’s a reminder of our status as US citizens and our right to equal treatment,” he said. “The new system will remind Americans that people living in Puerto Rico are American citizens from birth.”
Invalidation of Old Birth Certificates
The invalidation of old birth certificates is expected to cause some inconvenience for residents, but authorities say it is necessary to prevent identity theft and fraud.
Conclusion
With the new system in place, Puerto Rico aims to regain control over its birth certificate process and protect its citizens from the scourge of identity theft.