Identity theft wasn't even recognised as a form of fraudulence until the 90s. It began in California.
Identity theft is exceedingly safe.
It wasn't made a misdemeanour in California until 1997. If someone steals your money, your car, your ox or your ass, you know exactly what to do. So, too, if someone misappropriates your plastic or cheque book. The banks and the card companies will be right behind you. But with identity theft it is not your property or financial instruments that are stolen, it is your selfhood.