"Consumers have more tools than ever before to prevent and detect identity theft."

Identity theft can cost victims thousands of dollars and take years to correct. Consumers can reduce the risk of identity theft, however, and take fast action to contain any harm if an identity thief strikes, Missouri Attorney General Jay Nixon says.

Nixon's advice on how to prevent identity theft is part of his efforts to mark National Protect Your Identity Week, Oct. 19-25. Nixon and Attorneys General from the other states are teaming up with consumer advocates and financial industry groups from across the country to educate consumers about how to protect against identity theft, detect it and act quickly if it happens.

"Consumers have more tools than ever before to prevent and detect identity theft," Nixon says. "By safeguarding your personal information, freezing your credit and checking your credit report you can go a long way toward preventing or at least minimizing the damage from this crime."

For prevention, Nixon says:

• Shred sensitive trash;
• Don't carry your Social Security card;
• Carry a minimum of documents in your purse and wallet;
• Only give out personal information to people you contact - not to people who contact you; and
• Freeze your credit report, which prevents strangers from opening new accounts in your name. This costs $5 at each of the three national credit bureaus. Instructions are available at the Attorney General's Web site, ago.mo.gov.

To detect identity theft, Nixon says to carefully review your bank and credit card statements at least monthly. Also, check your credit report. Consumers have a right to see their credit report yearly at no charge from each of the three credit bureaus.

Nixon says victims of identity theft should file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office.

The National Protect Your Identity Week Coalition has created a Web site with more resources. Test your knowledge of personal safety by taking the Identity Theft Quiz.