Credit Errors and Identity Theft Still on the Rise!

I know the current economic situation we are in is rough but can't these people at least get a job digging a ditch or something legal? It seems like there are a lot of people out there who want to be somebody else until the bills are due. I'm referring to identity theft and credit reporting errors. These things can be devastating and long term headaches, not to mention painfully expensive if not caught early on. Twenty years ago if you told the police that someone stole your identity you'd get a suspicious glance or two and a look of disbelief. Needless to say it's a whole new ballgame today and everyone from your creditor/banker to the Secret Service is taking a swing at catching these maggots. Like finding an illness, credit fraud/identity theft rely heavily on early detection! You, the consumer, must be vigilant when it comes to your finances because they'll take 'all you got' and then some. It is up to you to be aware of changes to your account(s) and be proactive with your bank, credit card company, and credit report services. The latter can be invaluable at detecting subtle changes or additions to your credit such as a change of address, phone number change, or an account you never knew about. The banks and credit companies will not see a problem until bills are not paid and collections try to track down Mr. or Ms. John Q. Public and make them pay a card bill they never knew they had. Information is KING and the ones that have it are in control. Don't let it happen to you. My friend Tom is still feeling the effects and his got taken care of a year ago.