The FTC estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal identifying information like your name, Social Security number, or credit card number without permission to commit fraud. Skilled identity thieves may use various methods like dumpster diving, skimming, phishing, vishing, smishing, or changing your address to steal your personal information. To protect yourself, monitor your accounts monthly, check your credit reports regularly, and notify authorities if you become a victim of identity theft.