Identity theft is one of the most serious problems facing modern society. It involves stealing someone else's personal information, such as their name, address, birth date, social security number, bank account numbers, or credit card numbers with the intent of using the stolen information for some type of criminal activity. The problem with identity theft is that those who commit the crime can use the stolen information to gain access to a victim's finances, causing major financial losses. Some victims of identity theft can also experience long-term damage to their credit rating. Additionally, some victims may experience negative emotional impacts, such as embarrassment, fear, or anxiety. There are certain steps one can take to prevent identity theft. Consumers should check their credit report on a regular basis and promptly dispute any suspicious activity. In addition, consumers should be aware of what type of information they are disclosing on the internet and through other means. Finally, consumers should use strong passwords and other forms of two-factor authentication to protect their accounts as best as possible. Identity theft is a serious crime that has serious consequences for victims, and as such, it should be taken seriously. By following proper safety measures and regularly monitoring their credit report, consumers can best protect themselves from becoming a victim of identity theft.