Identity Theft and Identity Fraud are two common ways to describe when someone fraudulently uses your personal information such as your social security number, credit card numbers, banking information, etc. to commit fraud.

Identity Theft/Identity Fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States and one of the top consumer concerns.The Federal Trade Commission suggests that appoximately 9 Million people will be affected by some type of IdentityTheft this year.

Taking steps to protect yourself from Identity Theft are very important and is not very time consuming. Taking steps now could save you thousands of dollars and countless hours trying to repair the damage done to your good name.

-Always review your monthly credit accounts and check for any charges you didn't make or any other fraudulent activity.

-Review your credit report regularly. You should check your credit report atleast annualy to check for debts you can't explain, inquiries from companies you did not contact, etc.

-Be aware of Internet phishing and electronic scams. Never share your personal information with anyone. Make sure who you are dealing with, why they need your personal information, and How they plan on protecting it.

-Protect your Computer. Install and anit-Virus or spyware Protection Program. Use Firewalls.

-Store Social Security Numbers and other Personal Information in a secure place.

-Always Shred mail, Important Papers, and Pre-Approved Credit Card offers. Don't just toss papers in the trash that contain information about you. Dumpster Diving is one of the ways thieves will get your personal information.

-Retrieve your mail from your mailbox as soon as possible. Deposit outgoing mail in a postal dropbox. If a thief was to get hold of your mail this could be like finding gold for them.