Identity Theft

Identify theft is much more significant than theft of a credit card or credit card number. A thief who steals someone's identity typically has access to personal information that assures a lender or creditor the thief is you. For example, credit card companies typically ask for Social Security numbers, birth dates, mothers' maiden names and a previous address before a credit card is issued. Generally, this ensures that the person applying for the card is who she says she is. However, a thief who has that information can open credit cards accounts or write checks in that person's name, essentially destroying her credit rating and making her subject to criminal prosecution

SIDEBAR: The Federal Trade Commission operates a special Web site for victims of identity theft at www.consumer.gov/idtheft/.

How will I know if my identity has been stolen?

Usually you will find unauthorized charges on a credit card bill; however, there are other signs your identity is being used:

• Credit card bills may cease to come to your address.
• You may receive a credit card that you did not apply for yourself.
• You may be denied credit suddenly.
• You may receive calls or bills from collections agencies concerning purchases you did not make.