Identity theft is a serious crime. How can someone steal your identity? Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, social security number, credit card number, or other identifying information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.
 
People whose identities have been stolen can spend a great deal of time and money in trying to clean up the damage that thieves have done to their good name and credit record. Learn more about identity theft and how to prevent it.
 
Phishing is a form of identity theft. Phishing scams use fraudulent emails and web sites that are designed to fool consumers into divulging personal financial data such as credit card numbers, account usernames and passwords, social security numbers, and so forth. Phishing scams are increasing at an alarming rate. Learn more about phishing and how to avoid being hooked.