[cathyp]

Last week I got my Embarq bill and someone had called them using my name and the last 4 digits of my social security number and opened a music download service. The next day my cell phone bill arrived with a new phone number added in the same manner. Anyone else had this problem? The sheriff blew it off saying, "Well, if they took the charges off your bill, you're no longer a victim." I do intend to pursue charges being brought against the person who did this.

[Mikitv]

Yes don't blame you because what else have they done using your identity. Hope you can figure this out since it seems like you won't get any help from the Sheriff.

[jblum8156]

Your identity has been stolen. I had this happen in April when my wallet was stolen. You should immediately contact all your credit cards and ask for new cards with new numbers. Same with checking account and ATM cards.
It could be that adding the music account was just a one-time incident. But this information can be sold, and the buyer might have much more nefarious intentions.

You might want to ask the three credit-reporting bureaus to lock your accounts so no one can apply for credit using your name (because creditors have to ask for your credit rating and they can't get it if it's locked.
Their phone numbers are

Equifax 1-800-525-6285
Experian 1-888-397-3742
Transunion 1-800-680-7289

Also keep close tabs on your checking account and credit card transactions.
In my case, someone in Ohio applied for a home mortgage loan using my information. I found about it when the mortgage agent called me ( the real me). Good luck

[Hawkwind]

That most likely is the first stage of identity theft. They try something small to see if it goes through and then go for the kill or even sell your information.

[Bryan]

I would definitely go back to your local law enforcement department to file a report and be very insistent about it. They can't do much about ID Theft but all your credit card companies, banks, etc., will want to know the police report number where you reported the ID theft. You do need to file that report and get the report number. If the officer assisting you refuses to take a report, keep going up their chain of command. They know what they need to do - just don't like doing it sometimes.

[jblum8156]

Bryan is right. Any complications, the credit card co. or bank will want a copy of the police report.