Just think-if your wallet was stolen or you have for one reason or another, been physically separated from items that contain sensitive information like your social security number, credit card information, driver's license number, etc-- it is easy to prevent identity theft because you can cancel all your cards and report them stolen to prevent anyone misusing your personal information for their gain. While the victim and his wife spent more than four years and more than $15,000 of their own money to restore their credit and reputation, the criminal served a brief sentence for making a false statement to procure a firearm, but made no restitution to his victim for any of the harm he had caused. How do thieves get my information? They would not even know that there are two you without you saying that there is. Only by making an effort to seek the proper authorities and report your case will you be able to help fight this growing criminal bandwagon. Report identity theft to the police To report identity theft, you will need to visit your local police station. Even the area near your home or office may not be secure. Some criminals engage in "dumpster diving" going through your garbage cans or a communal dumpster or trash bin -- to obtain copies of your checks, credit card or bank statements, or other records that typically bear your name, address, and even your telephone number. They can open a credit card account and immediately charge up to the limit with no intention of paying. Credit cards can be obtained through banks and credit unions as well as chain stores. Many offers for "pre-approved" credit cards come in the mail. Getting a credit card issued by department stores is simple. Transaction monitoring - this is done by taking care of the reports of your credit billing by requesting yearly low-charged credit reports 2. Use password wisely - those not easily identified by making it remotely related to you. 3. Be wary of strangers in the house by limiting their access to private information you are keeping.