We have all heard about bank robbers, car thieves, house thieves, and shoplifters.
             These are very common thieves, and we see them on television almost everyday. One kind of thief that we almost never hear about is the identity thief. We never hear about them on television, so we do not think much about these criminals and the effects that they have on their victims. If our personal belongings (identification, social security card, credit cards, etc.) are ever lost or stolen we can be a victim of identity theft and all the troubles that come with it.
             For example, lets just say Jane (the victim) was out shopping one day and she put her purse down briefly to look at a pair of jeans that were on sale. Well, right behind her was Tom an expert con artist just waiting for the right moment where he could pick up another score for his book of victims. Since Tom is very sly and smooth, Jane never suspected anything and went on about her business. A few hours later she noticed her purse was missing. It was too late. Tom had already gone on a shopping spree with his wife.
             There are so many things that can happen to Jane or any one of us within the few hours we do not report our personal belongings missing. The thief could quickly open several accounts under his new identity. He could also use the personal checks to purchase anything (most checks under five hundred dollars are not verified through the check agencies). All of this will affect the victim's future credit reports. Not to mention any future car or home loans.
             There are so many inconveniences that can occur from being of victim of identity theft. The police department should be the very first place to contact if this happens. There are also banks, department stores, credit agencies, and fraud agencies to contact as well. After all of this trouble it would be wise to log down every purchase made after the theft. For instance, if there are any doubts on a ...