Michelle Brown was an upstanding citizen who worked hard, earned her degree, and always kept good credit.

Michelle testified before the U.S. Senate in July 2000 to recommend stronger protections against identity theft.

The worst moment came when immigration officers stopped her at the airport because the impostor had committed drug-related crimes under her name.

She canceled her credit cards, reported to the police, and contacted the Department of Motor Vehicles—where she learned someone had made a duplicate of her license.

Even though she was innocent, Michelle stopped traveling because she feared being arrested again.

Her stress turned into fear when she discovered over $50,000 of debt in her name for things like liposuction, apartments, and vacations.

Michelle received a phone call from her bank asking about a late payment for a Dodge pickup truck she had never bought.

Michelle’s life changed in January 1999 when she discovered that her personal information had been stolen.

It took years for Michelle to clear her name and restore her life.

Michelle’s mental and emotional health suffered; she stopped eating, lost sleep, and even broke up with her boyfriend.