In the meantime, the criminal with your personal information may:

• Go on a shopping spree with your credit or debit card account numbers. Thieves may also create counterfeit debit cards or checks. Merchandise can be sold and the criminals walk away with cash.
• Open credit or checking accounts in your name with your SSN and date of birth. As the bills pile up, your credit report reflects the delinquent account.
• Have your credit card statements sent to a phony address. Without the bills as a reference, it may take you a while to realize your account is being used.
• Take out loans in your name for big purchases, such as a new car.
• Set up telephone or internet service in your name.
• Avoid the responsibilities of debt or an impending eviction by filing bankruptcy using your SSN.
• Give your name to police when being arrested. If the criminal is released on bond but fails to appear for the court date, police may issue an arrest warrant for you.
• If you have need to contact the three main credit bureaus, go to www.apscreen.com to find out more.

Protecting yourself against identity theft takes a little extra time, but in comparison to the time, effort, and money it takes to reclaim your name once it has been stolen, the vigilance is well worth it.

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