How do they use the personal information they steal?
It’s common for an identity thief to call a credit card company and ask that the mailing address on a credit card be changed. They run up charges on the account … and then have the bill sent to another address. Other thieves can open new credit card or bank accounts using your name, date of birth, and Social Security Number. When the bills aren’t paid or the checks bounce, it would be reported on your credit report. Other thieves can use your name to take out loans and make creditors think they’re dealing with you. Still other thieves may use your identity to gain employment, file for fraudulent health benefits. They may even use your identity while committing other types of criminal activity.
