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I am finally
going to ... Protect my identity
Compiled by Dani
M. Arthur • Bankrate.com
 Ten
million Americans were victims of
identity theft in 2002, says the Federal
Trade Commission. You don't want to
be one of the statistics.
Identity theft happens
when someone gains access to your
personal information and then assumes
your identity to do things such as
open a bank account, credit card or
another account to commit fraud or
theft. Not only is it a huge hassle
to clean up, but it's expensive.
The FTC figures that
in 2002 consumers spent an estimated
$5 billion in out-of-pocket expenses
trying to refute fraudulent claims
and restore their financial reputations.
Creative crooks are
plotting new schemes all the time.
To avoid identity
theft you need to take control of
your personal information. While some
details are out of your control, you
can do your best to protect yourself
with these steps.
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