What do thieves do with a stolen identity?

Once they have your personal information, identity thieves go about their business in a variety of ways.

Credit card fraud:
  • They may open new credit card accounts in your name. When they use the cards and don't pay the bills, the delinquent accounts appear under your name on your credit report.

  • They may change the billing address on your credit card so that you no longer receive bills, and then run up charges on your account. Because your bills are now sent to a different address, it may be some time before you realize there's a problem.
Phone or utilities fraud:

  • They may open a phone or wireless account, or run up charges on your existing account.
  • They may use your name to get utility services like electricity, heating, or cable TV.
Bank/finance fraud:
  • They may open a bank account in your name and write bad checks.
  • They may authorize electronic transfers in your name, from your accounts, and drain your savings.
  • They may take out a loan in your name.
Government documents fraud:
  • They may get a driver's license or official ID card issued in your name but with their picture.
  • They may use your name to get government benefits.
  • They may file a fraudulent tax return using your information.
Other fraud:
  • They may get a job using your Social Security number.
  • They may rent a house or get medical services using your name.
  • They may give your personal information to police during an arrest. If they don't show up for their court date, a warrant for arrest is issued in your name.