Define "identity theft" according to California law.

Identity theft, as defined by California law, involves the act of using someone else's personal information with the intent to commit fraud or deception. This encompasses a wide range of activities, including but not limited to using someone’s name, Social Security number, or other identifying information without their consent. The key element here is the fraudulent purpose: the perpetrator seeks to gain something of value by impersonating another individual.

Although options regarding accessing financial accounts, creating fake identities, or stealing property using someone else's identification may be related to identity theft, they do not encompass the broader definition as provided in option A. The focus of identity theft is on the unauthorized use of personal information to carry out fraudulent activities, making that definition the most inclusive and accurate representation according to California law.