Identity Theft

Identity theft is when someone uses your personally identifying information to commit fraud. Someone could even borrow money in your name, leaving you with debt and credit problems.
Leaving your wallet or purse unattended in public places is risky, but in today's world, leaving any piece of personal information can be just as dangerous. Someone can steal your identity just as easily as one of your possessions, so safeguard it:

• Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) identity theft website – Deter, Detect, Defend: Avoid ID Theft
• The federal government's tips for guarding against Internet fraud – OnGuardOnline.gov 
• The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) presentation – Don't Be an On-Line Victim: How to Guard Against Internet Thieves and Electronic Scams.