Identity Theft

The 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report, released by Javelin Strategy & Research as an update to the Javelin 2009 Identity Fraud Survey Report and the Federal Trade Comission's (FTC) 2007 Identity Theft Report, reports that in 2009 nearly 11.1 million U.S. adults became victims of identity fraud, a 12% increase over 2008, and a 37% rise since 2007.  

Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person's personal information such as name, Social Security number, driver's license number, credit card number or other identifying information to take on that person's identity in order to commit fraud or other crimes.

Protecting Yourself

Want to know what steps you can take to guard against theft of your identity?  See Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft.

Got Suspicion or Notice of Data Breach?

Did you receive a Data Breach Notice or do you suspect that your personal information has been exposed?  Wondering what to do?  See Dealing with Suspicion or Notice of Data Breach.

My Identity Was Stolen

Do you have evidence that someone used your identity without your permission?  See What to Do If Your Identity Was Stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need answers to other common identity theft questions?  See our FAQ.