Identity Theft Seminars

"We do see consumers coming into the bank concerned, maybe a wallet's been stolen, a checkbook, a credit card," says Rebecca Dunham with Arvest.

The seminar featured an FBI expert who said 8 million people were victims of identity theft in 2010. It's a fact that surprised Dunham.

"The dramatic increase particularly over the last decade in how much were of a problem this is becoming," says Dunham.

From 2005 to 2010 the number of victims who suffered financial loss because of identity theft increased from 18% percent to 23%.

To stay out of that group, consider making few changes. Experts say a shredder can be your best friend. And authorities also recommend checking bank accounts daily to catch identity theft early.

Plus, you will need to file a police report once you discover you are a victim - make sure to contact the Federal Trade Commision immediately.

"We are seeing an increase in people being more cautious and obviously more concrened about taking care of that," says Dunham.

And Arvest isn't done. The bank will sponsor another seminar open to all Joplin residents. It will be on May 4th at 1 P.M. at Missouri Southern.