How Serious Is Identity Theft?

Imagine waking up one morning... You are on your way to an interview for a new job. Maybe you’re looking to jump up the corporate ladder or perhaps it’s for a second job to help get ahead of the bills. Whatever the case you are optimistic about the day. A friend of yours has given their personal recommendation and you are confident the job is in the bag.

The interview goes well. The interviewer seems pleased with you and you have a good feeling about the offer. While nothing is promised you are more than certain the job is yours as soon as the paperwork is approved.

You finish the interview and stop by the car showroom. It’s looking like a good time to finally get that new car you’ve had your eye on! You’ve been thinking about it for months. The salesperson takes you for a spin and it’s everything you’ve dreamed of – and more!

Stepping back into the showroom the salesperson suggests you sit down. “Grab a cup of coffee and we’ll talk about driving this baby away today!” Sounds good.

Bantering over the paperwork you sit back with a sigh of contentment and put down the pen. “Let’s just check your credit and you should be off in a few minutes” he says. Today is a GREAT day!

As you sit back and gaze at the gleaming cars on the showroom floor you notice the salesperson has become rather silent.

“I’m sorry but it looks like this might not work out right now” he says. You look at him and see a sudden sternness in his eyes. “Really,” you say “why’s that?”

“Well, you’ve got a few things on your credit report that are a concern. I’m afraid this car would be impossible to finance.”

“What do you mean? My credit is fine!” you start to sputter “let me see”.

“I’m not allowed to share your report with you, but maybe in a few months you can come back and look again.”

You head out the door in confusion. You KNEW you could get that car. What was he talking about?

As you open the door to your home you see the message light flashing on your phone. That was fast! The job offer – that will put you back in a good mood!

“…I’m afraid we won’t be able to offer you a position with us right now…” you don’t even hear the rest of the message. WHAT??

Ding-dong. The doorbell. Who could that be?

“Hello, I’m Officer Brown, may we have a word with you…”