Identity theft is the most common complaint reported to the Federal Trade Commission. October is Identity Theft Prevention Month, so this is a good time to talk about ID theft – what it is, and how to prevent it.

Identity theft occurs when another person uses your personal information, such as name, Social Security number or credit or debit card without your permission.

The FTC estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their IDs stolen each year. When this happens, ID thieves may get a credit card, rent an apartment, buy an automobile or establish a phone account in your name. You may not realize your identity has been stolen until you obtain your credit report, attempt to get credit or are contacted by a collection agency.