It is high time Americans learnt that identity theft is definitely something that can happen to them, no matter how rich, old or nice you are. Criminal statistics are puzzling: every year more and more Americans fall victims of unscrupulous individuals who rob them of their identity and use their names, bank account information or even email address to shop online, apply for a loan or even commit more serious crimes. And victims of this hideous crime are well aware of the fact that it is stressing, exhausting, time and money consuming to gain their identity back.

Identity theft has multiple faces and it is very important that you become acquainted with them so that you can be even more aware. Although the authorities have enforced identity theft protection programs and criminal experts as well as law enforcement officials are doing an extra effort to fight against this crime, it is you the prime responsible of keeping yourself and your family safe.

Social Security Number Identity Theft: There are some unscrupulous organizations that  gain access to your Social Security Number and give it to illegal immigrants who want to work on the States. Their eventual employer reports the wages earned under your SSN and you are left to pay income taxes for an income you have never actually received.
Character Identity Theft: Somebody you know or who you do not know impersonates you because he or she envies your lifestyle or your partner, out of revenge or just because they want to commit a crime and that you pay for it.

Driver's License Identity Theft: Someone drives carelessly, violates the red lights or hits  a by crosser, but as this scammer has your driver's license, it is you who is brought to Court and who have to pay for all the offenses.

Medical Identity Theft: It occurs whenever somebody steals any of your identity card and has access to your medical  insurance policy. Thus, he can get medical treatment at your expense.

Credit Identity Theft: This is by far, the most common face of this hideous crime and the one you are probably more familiar with. Some unscrupulous person uses your sensitive private information to pay goods, buy a house, apply for a loan and so on in your name and, as a result, your credit record is severely affected.

You should always have your eyes wide open. Fraudsters and scammers are everywhere and you should know that there is nothing more precious than your identity.