A recent story reinforced for me that as consumers we should not only be checking our credit reports but also any other source, like our Social Security statements, that might uncover a thief.

In this case the victim knew someone else was using her identity because she had just been informed that because she was already working (in another state) she was no longer eligible for free housing.

But when the cops pulled over the alleged thief for speeding in February, they discovered a hoard of information in the victim's name.

The stash included:

- A Kohl's Department Store charge card.

- Three Victoria's Secret store cards.

- One Chase Bank debit card.

- Two JC Penney store cards.

- An Old Navy credit card.

- A credit union card.

- A Sam's Club card

- And some Delta Dental cards.

The victim later found out that the thief, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, had been filing tax returns in her name since 2002.

I think five years is more than enough time to do at least one thorough check on your own identity and on as many resources as possible. Don't just rely on your credit reports.