Identity Crisis

The other day I get a call from Wendy.  She says that some representative from a credit card collection agency is calling to speak with me.  The representative tells Wendy that I have opened a Sears card.  Wendy tries to assure the person this is not the case, but to no avail.

So I get online at Sears to see if I have such a card.  I want to know what Sears has on me before I can the credit card company.  I have gotten this automated messages in the past and just hang up because I know I have not opened a card.  I track down a number to call and check about the Sears credit card.  To my amazement, the automated voice says I have a card.  To my astonishment it says I have a balance...of $1800.  So I speak to a human representative.  Looks like someone bought a 60 inch Panasonic television and PlayStation 3.

Apparently, I am a victim of identity theft. The people I talk to are really nice.  They ask for information and say the account will be closed.  I am, thankfully, not responsible for the charges.  I will have to fill out some additional information to send it.  My credit report now has a seven year advisement on it.  I do not do much with my credit anyway.

A couple of things get me.  One...the person had my name and social security number, but put another address.  How did that pass the application stage?  Do they not check to see it matches up?  Two...how did the person get credit in my name when I cannot even get credit.  I have only applied for one card and I was declined because I did not have enough credit.

I guess you have to give credit where credit is due.