And it happens more often than you think. You have heard about this disaster from the BBB president, Gerry Wilson, Postal Inspector David Fast, and by Marti Emerald, the ‘Trouble Shooter’ from Channel 10. It has been a constant subject in our Neighborhood Watch Seminars over the past three years. But it still happens. And perhaps we still don’t pay attention. It is on the rise and spreading fast. Don’t be a willing victim.

Why does it happen? It happens because the bad guys want to use you and your credit for their own purposes. It happens because we are lax about some of our business dealings. It happens because we throw sensitive things away in our trash each week - it’s easy to grab a bag of trash, go through it, take your many, many numbers - Social Security, credit card, driver’s license, ATM, and a myriad of other numbers you throw out in your trash. First of all, we can stop that right now. A personal shredder can be purchased for as little as $29.00. It’s a great investment. But it’s still not a good idea to put your trash out before collection; the bad guys always find something.

Another scary thing. You know how many requests you get each month in the mail from credit card solicitors? Crooks can obtain a lot of information about you from these if you just throw them in your trash.. They will watch for junk mail offering low-rate credit cards. They can lift the solicitations from your mailbox, your trash, or your business and apply in your name, but write in a different address. The credit card and all statements would go to the other address. You will never know what hit you until you get the first intruding phone call. Just try to explain why you haven’t paid! Don’t throw those solicitations in the trash.

Victims have been left with a damaged reputation and bad credit reports. Gerry Wilson, BBB, notes, "creditors may not believe you when you say you didn’t use that credit card. Bill collectors may hound you. Liens could pile up against your property. Because of your apparent debts, you may lose your access to credit."

First things first: destroy all information about you that is not needed (or file for safekeeping.) Like carbons of all charge accounts from stores, restaurants, and the like. And buy - and use - that shredder!

Next week, we will examine the ways to minimize your losses from identity theft. We will also explain the ways you can thwart the thieves and how to report this crime to get action as fast as possible.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: Helen Phillips, Director of the Rancho Bernardo Community Park. She was honored for her fine work during the Rancho Bernardo Recreation Council meeting on August 2nd. Rose Garner, from the Rancho Bernardo Pop Warner Football Association presented Ms. Phillips with a plaque commending her on the outstanding work above and beyond what is called for as a director.