The economy is in an economic downturn. When that happens, it brings about other consequences in our society. For one, crime increases. Protect yourself from identity thieves who want to separate you from your money.

On average, identity thieves use high tech methods to find ways of defrauding innocent people. They come up with telephone scams, Internet website scams, email scams and other ingenious plans like taking photos of your card with a cell phone camera. When times are hard, these same thieves could resort to less sophisticated ways of stealing.

Consumers have gotten smarter in order to outsmart identity thieves. You read articles and booklets on how to protect yourself from these criminals. That includes shredding mail, being careful when shopping online, paying bills online and getting an annual credit report. Using reputable identity protection programs also helps you stay safe from the prying eyes of others.

You should be in the clear now, right? Think again. When people are faced with losing their homes and the ability to provide for their families, all sorts of ideas fill their heads. It isn’t just the chic criminal you need to watch out for but the desperate identity thief as well. Who are they? They could be anyone: your next door neighbor, a relative down on his or her luck, a coworker or someone you wouldn’t even suspect like a professional doctor or lawyer. And, the regular purse snatcher or carjacker falls into this category as well. A poor economy brings out the violent thief as well.

It sounds like a scene from The X-Files but “trust no one.” You can protect your identity by being street smart and savvy in your dealings with other people. Resist the urge to order items over the telephone at work or in a public area. You might think you are whispering but someone is hearing you.

Still follow the same precautions that you did when identity thieves swiped purses and wallets to get their information:

1. Don’t leave your purse in the car or your mail on the seat in full view. Lock your car doors even in your own driveway.

2. Use ATM machines at banks and during the day. At night, thieves can assault you for your card, money and your car.

3. Be aware of your surroundings. It is harder for a thief to sneak up on you if you are looking them right in the eye.

4. Don’t give out any personal or financial information over the telephone for any reason.

Identity thieves are still active in these tough economic times and they are returning to some tried and true methods to get your information. Protect yourself in every way so you don’t become a victim.