Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the U.S. It occurs when someone uses your personal information-name, driver's license number, Social Security Number, Credit Card number, birth date or mother's maiden name-to access your bank accounts, open new Checking Accounts or apply for Credit Cards or other Loans. Many victims learn about identity theft after they are declined for a Loan, receive a past due notice for a Credit Card or Loan they did not open or are contacted by a collection agency for bad checks they never wrote.

While you can't entirely control whether you will become a victim, there are steps you can take to protect your identity and minimize your risk. If you think you've become a victim of identity theft or fraud, here's what to do.