Gauging the ID Theft Threat

NEW YORK (AP) - It's one of the reasons some people are still
afraid to shop online: Someone might steal their credit card number
or other sensitive financial data. However, a new study indicates
that when it comes to identity theft, the biggest risk is still the
most low-tech one, namely someone getting hold of your wallet,
checkbook or credit card. The study by Javelin Strategy and
Research says most people believe they're vulnerable to identity
theft if they go online for a financial transaction. But the study
finds that financial institutions and retailers have shored up
their in-store and online security. At the same time, ID thieves
have turn to more traditional types of theft to rip people off,
such a swiping a card outright or using the phone or plain old
snail mail.