Which option is NOT considered a form of fraud?

Budgeting is a financial practice focused on planning and managing expenses and income. It involves creating a plan for how to allocate resources over a specific period of time, ensuring that individuals or organizations can meet their financial goals. This activity promotes financial stability and responsible management of finances, which is in stark contrast to fraudulent activities that aim to deceive and exploit.

In contrast, identity theft, phishing, and insurance fraud all involve deceptive practices designed to manipulate individuals or systems for personal gain. Identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information to impersonate them and commit fraud. Phishing typically refers to fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity through electronic communication. Insurance fraud entails deceitful claims intended to benefit financially at the expense of insurance providers. Therefore, since budgeting is a legitimate financial practice rather than a deceptive act, it is correctly identified as not being a form of fraud.