Identity theft affects millions of Americans every year.
In Wisconsin, state numbers show more than 2,400 of us are victims every year.

In tonight's On the Money report, we're taking a look at how you can protect your pocketbook and how you can get help if it happens to you.

It can be hard to hide. Your information is everywhere, in your hand at the store...

"Many cell phones now have cameras," Janet Jenkins with the Office of Privacy Protection says.

...in your mailbox, and in cyberspace.

"Hackers can do many things with computers and hack into them," Jenkins adds.

But the Wisconsin Office of Privacy Protection says the best protection is preparation.

-Take cash when you head out and about to shop.

-Use a credit card if you are shopping online because legally, the most you'll have to pay by law is $50 and if thieves get your debit card they can wipe you out.

-Watch your bank statements and credit card statements like a hawk. Look for charges you didn't make.

Jenkins adds, "when the statement comes look at it right away and say I don't have to worry about this for another 3 weeks."

Jenkins says if you've been a victim, act immediately. Making a free phone call to her department can help you with the hassles that come along with identity theft. "We have people who will assist consumers in getting through the maze of what needs to be done when identity is compromised."

She says once your credit or bank account has been hit, it may not be over, so you need to keep watching.

That individual may sell your info and someone else will start using your credit card for a little while.

And chasing down the culprits can prove a challenge because Jenkins says most if it is done with computers and they can be stealing from you anywhere in the world. "If we can find them we can't get at them because their country won't extradite them also they can cover their tracks more easily in a foreign country."

If you want to call the Wisconsin Office of Privacy to help you get through the recovery process, that number is 1-800-422-7128.

And to see several articles, tips and resources on identity theft, click here.