Identity theft is one of the most damaging types of crimes in existence. It normally takes place when an individual illegally obtains another person's personal data and information. This criminal then takes the information, assumes the victim's identity, and uses it to carry out a variety of crimes. With a person's personal information compromised, a criminal has the ability to use the victim's personal information to create credit card and charge accounts, open bank accounts, and apply for loans, passports, government benefits and licenses.

What makes identity theft so particularly heinous is the length of time and the amount of money it takes to clean up the damage that this type of fraud creates. Credit card companies and banks have created safeguards against identity theft and financial fraud, but they cannot do much to repair a person's credit, reputation, and general state-of-mind after the fraud has taken place.

Most criminals gain access to an individual's personal information by looking through the trash or by convincing a person to simply hand over their information, either through a phone or an email scam. Individuals who wish to avoid becoming the victims of identity theft should consider the following suggestions:

Shred your documents - a good strip-cut or cross-cut shredder can make it difficult for any criminal to gain access to any sensitive documents that have to be discarded. Today, there are even paper shredders available that have the ability to shred credit cards.

Check your credit file often - too many times, individuals are simply unaware that their identity has been stolen until it is too late. To avoid any problems, check your credit file often. Looks for any accounts or credit applications that look unfamiliar. Report any problems to the proper authorities immediately.

Keep track of your mail - individuals living in large housing complexes are more like to have their mail stolen than anyone else. If an important personal document is being mailed to you, consider having in mailed to a safer address, or if possible, arrange for a personal pick-up of the document. The Royal Mail Customer Enquiry Line is a good source for reporting any irregularities with your mail delivery.

Report address changes - any time you move or change addresses, report the change to your creditors, banks, and any other organization that you receive sensitive personal documents from.

Be careful with your credit cards - if you have to give out personal credit card information over the phone or online, be sure it is safe to do so. Make sure that online stores and sites are secure. Ensure that the area around you is also secure if you are providing your personal information over the phone or in public.

Do not carry any unnecessary documents on your person. Store them away in a safe place.

Report any lost or stolen documents to the proper authorities immediately.

Shred any personal documents before discarding them.

Keep track of your credit card statements and report any unfamiliar charges r transactions to the company immediately.