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What can ID thieves do with your information?

October 5, 2007


Once identity thieves have your personal information, they may use it to:

  • Call your creditors and change your mailing address on your credit card account.


  • Open new credit accounts in your name. When they use the credit cards and do not pay the bills, the delinquent accounts appear on your credit report.  
  • Establish phone or wireless services in your name which are charged to you.
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  • Open bank accounts in your name and write bad checks.
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  • Forge checks to wipe out your bank account.
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  • Apply for auto loans or student loans in your name

  • Give your name to the police during an arrest. If they do not show up for their court date, a warrant for arrest is issued in your name.


    • How you can detect fraud:

    Be alert to signs that require immediate attention such as:

  • Bills that do not arrive as expected
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  • Unexpected credit cards or account statements


  • Bill collections agencies contacting you for overdue debts you never incurred


  • Denial of credit for no clear reason


  • Calls or letters about purchases you did not make


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