Didn't this take place when identity theft was a fairly new crime

It seems like today there's all kinds of different identity theft protection, but back then, there wasn't. So it was really easy for a criminal to get away with it until they eventually got caught.
It's been a long time since I've seen this movie, but I remember the horror that Michelle went through and I can't imagine the insecurity she felt. That is exactly why when you find a credit card missing or anything else that has your identity on it, it's vitally important that you get it taken care of before it's too late and you're the one in trouble.