HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Nine million Americans will have their identities stolen each year according to the Federal Trade Commission, but the identity of some of the thieves may surprise you.

A lot of people who have their identities stolen may know the thieves very well. We've all heard the stories saying to beware of people trying to steal your identity from internet hackers to dumpster divers and even in your own family.

According to Senior Assistant Attorney General Charli Fulton nearly one third of all identity theft happens within the family.

“That can be a parent using a child's identity for example if you have bad enough credit that you cant get hooked up to electricity we've had complaints where they've used a minor child’s identity then when child turns 18 they already have bad credit,” Fulton said.

It also happens a lot in divorces, but Fulton says in just the pass two weeks she's received two cases involving adult children opening credit accounts in their parent's names, racking up large bills and the parents only finding out after bill collectors came calling.

“It's a difficult situation when identity theft is in the family because often what’s needed to get it truly straightened out is to file a police report and many people are hesitant to file reports against their parents, children or relatives,” Fulton said.

Fulton's best advice is to take precautions. She says to check your credit report at least once a year and you can do this for free. Also, opt out of getting those credit card offers through the mail. You can even go as far as placing a security freeze on your account, which can be lifted by you and only you for a certain period of time.

“It makes it virtually impossible for someone to get credit in your name,” Fulton said.

You never know who may be trying to steal your identity. You can find more information on identity theft and how to protect yourself on the attorney general's web site.

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