Identity theft is a serious crime that costs American consumers billions of dollars and uncounted each year. This occurs when someone uses your personal information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.

Although you can not entirely control whether you will become a victim, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the consumer protection agency, encourages consumers to Deter, Detect and Defend to help reduce identity theft.

Blocking

Prevent identity theft by keeping your information:

• broken financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you delete it.

• Protect your Social Security number. Give it only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.

• Do not provide personal information via phone, email or the Internet if you know who you are dealing with.

Detecting

Detect suspicious activity by routinely monitoring your financial accounts and billing. Alert to signs that require immediate attention, such as: bills that do not come as expected; unexpected credit cards or account statements; denial of credit for no apparent reason, and calls or letters about purchases you did not succeed.

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