Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the U.S. and involves the illegal use of a person’s identity. Criminals use stolen identities to gain access to existing financial accounts, open new financials accounts in his or her name, or make fraudulent charges or loans.

Victims of identity theft may be expected to pay for goods or services they never purchased, deal with collection agencies for past due bills, lose job opportunities, or denied loans. Victims can spend months or even years repairing damage to their good name and credit!

The best way to protect yourself from identity theft is to safeguard your financial and personal information and never give it out to unsolicited requests via email, phone calls, or text messages.