Many people today scam through people's trash to get their information, that is known as identity theft. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in both Canada and the United States. When someone steals personal information and uses it to commit fraud or another crime that is identity theft. With the technology that we have today there are many ways to commit identity theft. Hackers use credit cards and social insurance numbers as a source. As the years pass we will have much more technology and that will probably make it much more easier for these hackers. These thieves can use someone's name, birth certificate, credit card number, social insurance number or other personal information to open bank accounts, get new credit cards, redirect mail, get cellphone service, rent cars or accomodation, and even to get a job according to the Consumer Measures Committee. My advice is to be really careful with all your personal information because now a days you can not trust anyone. Even people in business's commit this crime.

There are many reactions to identity theft. It can be very stressful during tax season, you have to be very careful during this time. You should use a paper shredder or burn the papers you do not need. Also do not leave your papers in any public place such as work or around your house where someone can get access to your papers. Always remember tax-season trash could be treasure to these thieves. If someone gets a hold of your personal information your life could be over.