An announcement from AG Nixon today brings up a familiar scenario in ID theft.

Felony charges are filed against a man for stealing and using the identity of his brother. This is not uncommon.

In a little over half of ID theft cases, the victim doesn't even know how his ID was stolen.

In the other cases, you would be surprised how often the thief is someone the victim knows and trusts: family members, roommates, friends, in-home staff like cleaning services and home health workers. In other words, people who have access to your stuff - your files, your computer, etc.

Thus be careful of where and how you store your personal info - you don't need to go overboard, but a small safe or locking box is not a bad idea (and has the added benefit of being fire and water proof). And of course, keep sensitive info protected on your computer with a password. And maybe that password should be in the safe.