As more people use computers, Internet identity theft has grown proportionately until it has almost gotten out of hand. It is estimated that from 2004 through 2009, approximately one out of every five citizens in the United States has been affected in some way by Internet identity theft. Identity theft that takes place in places other than online is easier to be aware of, since it usually happens after a wallet or purse is stolen. The thief might use a credit card or two for a few purchases, but that is all he or she would have time for, because you would report the theft. With Internet identity theft, since your information is retrieved from your computer by the thief, and travels so quickly over a computer network, a lot of theft can take place. The victim is usually unaware of what has happened until they get a credit card or bank statement. The Federal Trade Commission periodically warns computer users about bogus emails that attempt to persuade people to divulge their personal information.