Can a network's IP address be stolen for the use of criminal activity?

Can a network's IP address be stolen for the use of criminal activity?

Could someone doing criminal activity on the Internet use my IP address, so if they were investigated it would lead to my IP address?

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The most likely instance of this happening would be if you have an open access point (AP) at your house that nearby neighbors can connect to. This brings up the importance of securing your local Internet connection.

This was first published in November 2009