What is a common consequence of identity theft for victims?

Victims of identity theft often face significant challenges related to their financial standing, which can severely hinder their ability to obtain loans and mortgages. When someone's identity is stolen, the thief may use the victim's personal information to rack up debts, open new credit accounts, or default on existing ones. As a result, the victim's credit score can be negatively impacted, making it difficult for them to secure loans or mortgages. Creditors and lenders rely heavily on credit history when assessing loan applications, and a compromised credit score can lead to higher interest rates or outright denial of credit.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the typical aftermath of identity theft. Access to financial resources is usually impaired, law enforcement may struggle to provide effective support given the complexities of these cases, and victims typically encounter higher interest rates rather than reductions on their credit card accounts due to diminished creditworthiness. Hence, the struggle to obtain loans and mortgages is a prominent consequence that reflects the broader impacts of identity theft on an individual’s financial health.