Companies can actually garner lists of names and social security numbers from web sites and sell them to interested buyers. Goebel says often victims of identity theft don't realize what has happened until they apply for new credit or a loan. By then, the thief can have racked up thousands of dollars in debt. But it's often up to the victim to go through the hassles of clearing his or her credit history. Cleaning up the mess can take months or even several years.
Victims also can bring a civil suit against perpetrators, even if no criminal action is brought.
For more information on financial issues, or to request a free copy of the College Days brochure, contact your County Extension office.