An alias is an alternative or false identity used for legal or illegal purposes. It is not necessarily illegal, but using it for fraud or criminal acts is. Public figures may use pseudonyms to protect their privacy.
Almost everyone on the planet has a unique birth name that identifies them socially and legally. There are times, however, when a person may decide to invent an alternate identity, for legal or illegal purposes. Such an alternative or false identification is known as an alias, from the Latin for “at another time” or “else.” The English word else also comes from the same Latin root as alias. Career criminals often have at least one alias, which they use to avoid detection by law enforcement. These known aliases are often published on wanted posters and public bulletins alongside the suspect’s legal name.
Taking on an alias is not necessarily an illegal act in itself under the laws of many countries. A person may use an alternate name in many circumstances, as long as the purpose is not specifically illegal or intended to defraud others. A number of people assume aliases while participating in online chat rooms or discussion forums, for example. This practice allows participants some degree of anonymity, but there is rarely any intention to deceive other people or to assume the identity of a real person. Using an alias in a public setting is more likely to be a personal safety concern than a criminal act. A single woman can use an alias to thwart potential stalkers or unwanted attention, for example.
Using an alias to commit fraud or other criminal acts, however, is highly illegal. A scammer can use different aliases to start a business or open different bank accounts. If a victim can identify the scammer by name, she can always assume an alternate identity and quickly leave the area. Many criminals have been brought to justice because they routinely use the same aliases, or they may use their legal names to obtain goods and services while in hiding from the authorities. Sometimes a routine check of an employee’s Social Security number will reveal illegal use of an alias.
Sometimes a public figure or celebrity will use a pseudonym to protect their family from overzealous fans or members of the press. Making a reservation at a restaurant or registering at a local hotel under his real name could prove problematic, so a celebrity will often use an alias to avoid undue attention from the public. Some musicians and actors will go by pseudonyms or stage names because their legal birth names would be unmarketable. Radio personalities also assume radio aliases or names both to protect their real identities and to create a more audience-friendly persona. An established writer might use a pseudonym or pseudonym to publish a book outside of its normal genre.
Using an alias to introduce an alternate person or character is not specifically illegal in most cases. Using it to commit an illegal act, assume the identity of a real person or create confusion in the market is definitely not recommended.
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