Identity theft affects over $11 million people a year. It will take them on average 165 hours to repair the damage done. Losses will top $54 billion this year. Identity theft occurs when someone steals or uses your social security number, credit card, address or checks to commit fraud or other crimes. Above are a pdf and a video from the U.S. Justice Dept web site.
How does it happen to me?
Dumpster Diving is when someone goes through your trash for information.
Skimming is when someone steals your credit card # during a transaction.
Phishing occurs if you reply to a false email or text claiming to be your institution.
Stealing happens in many ways from " out of mailbox" to "purse in trunk of car".
Pretexting occurs when a thief obtains info from phone companies, survey
Change of Address is when someone fills out form to divert mail.