"It's a very big problem we're facing now, and it's going to get bigger in the future," Garcia said.

Woody has been hit with threatening letters from collection agencies and late tax notices, because the man used her Social Security number but never paid taxes. He also used her number to open bank accounts, sign up for cell phones, and open accounts with local utility companies.

Woody has spent years trying to clean up the financial mess. She has become something of an expert about a crime that's growing so fast, authorities say they're finding it tough to keep up. "I know you can buy a Social Security number, but you just think it will never happen to you," Woody said.

Local police, state and federal authorities cooperate in investigating this kind of crime and have made hundreds of arrests. At 900 South and State Street, they have run sting operations, made regular busts and keep the corner under surveillance.

Still the problem there persists, and investigators say the demand — the thought of fast money — keeps those who sell the cards coming back, even though they take a chance on getting caught.

Authorities recommend that people who suspect they might be the victim of identity theft contact the Social Security Administration. Their Web site, www.socialsecurity.gov, demonstrates how to track a number to make sure no one is using it, and gives suggestions on what to do if you learn you are a victim.

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Identity theft video

Deseret Morning News readers can see this story, including the hidden camera video, at ksl.com

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E-mail: ddujanovic@ksl.com; ngupta@ksl.com