Are You Protected Against Identity Theft?

There's no way to guarantee you won't become a victim of identity theft, but a local lawyer says it's key that you catch it as soon as possible.

James Wirth is an attorney, who works with people who have fallen victim to identity theft.

"The worst part is you don't know about it until it's too late, until you're being arrested, or until you're losing a job because of it," Wirth said.

He said criminals who do this often steal people's information wherever they can find it. That's why identity theft lawyers say it's critical to be vigilant. That even means keeping little things like mail from being exposed in your car.

4/8/2013 Related Story: Hundreds May Be Victims Of Tulsa Identity Theft Ring

"Obviously, you want to minimize the exposure to those items. Don't leave them laying around," Wirth said.

Wirth also suggests you shred any documents with confidential information. He said it's a good idea to run your credit report yearly or invest in protection programs like LifeLock or Identity Secure.

"Monitoring services is the best way to go, in addition to making just your typical common sense practical advice of keeping your private information private," Wirth said.

The Tulsa County Sheriff's Office says there could be hundreds, across several states, who have been hit by an elaborate ring created by Tammy Petit.

The case is so huge it's causing some investigators to think twice about protection programs.

"I saw enough in this particular case that, Saturday morning, before I did anything else,I bought myself a security protection plan for my documents, my credit cards, everything," said Major Tom Huckeby.

Many people may not even know they're a victim. Investigators are urging anyone who has recently been burglarized or thinks they're a victim to call 918-596-5690.