However, in the past few years, one's social security number has proven to be the cause that threatens both one's personal protection and security. Identity theft continues to be a threat to many individuals in America and across the globe. Unfortunately, although the social security number is supposed to provide one with security, it has been found most often to be the cause of identity theft. Identity theft happens when someone you do not know begins using your personal information for fraud and other crimes without your knowledge. Criminals can get it in a variety of ways. They can steal your personal information form your credit records. They can also get it from your credit and bank statements that come by mail. Identity thieves can take your personal information from your mail box or your home. They can steal your wallet or purse, or convince you to give out personal information. We all have to be on our guard. Identity theft is the fastest growing white-collar crime. It happens when an identity thief obtains some pieces of your personal information. Hackers may be able to get their hands on such information that they can use for a number of crimes using an unwilling victim s identity. Anyone can be a victim of identity theft. If you have a credit card, you can be a potential victim. If you hand out your credit card in restaurants and other establishments, you are at risk of identity theft. It's the fastest growing crime in America today. It's just a matter of time; sooner or later we'll all become victims. Ted Burke is a former law enforcement agent who has spent many years dealing with identity theft victims. "They really didn't have an antidote or way to stop the bleeding until we came about. By asuming your name, Social Security number, credit card number, or some other piece of your personal information for their own use. In short, identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without your knowledge to commit fraud or theft. They open a new credit card account, using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.