Identity Theft is the number one complaint filed with the Federal Trade Commission each year and comprises 37% of all complaints received in 2005. The FTC received 255,565 complaints of identity theft nationwide. Only 39% of ID theft victims report the crime to law enforcement and only 42% notify the credit reporting agencies of the theft. 

Identity theft is a seriuos crime.  If you think your identity has been stolen, visit the FTC’s website at www.ftc.gov for detailed information on how to determine whether or not your identity has been stolen, and how to obtain information and report the incident to the 3 major credit reporting agencies and law enforcement. Instances of identity theft should be reported to your local police or sheriff and the FTC. The FTC website contains an Identity Theft Affidavit to help you document information and communicate effectively with creditors.