So, my question is... how can people be unaware that someone else is using their SSN for years and years?First of all, unfortunately, if you find yourself the victim of identity theft - the institution where the theft occured is legally prohibited from telling you the identity or location of the person that is using your number. This is to stop you from doing something stupid that will land you in jail.
Same goes if you have a background check done for pre-employment purposes and another name comes up on your credit report. Your potential employer is not permitted to disclose this to you.
If someone is using your number to open accounts that they have no intention of paying off, you will find out soon enough, but you won't be responsible for their debts.
On the bright side, you will be entitled to all of their social security benefits they have accrued.
