Many think identity theft is just a high-tech crime, but experts say one of the most common methods criminals use is also one of the most simple. News 12 New Jersey?s Walt Kane exposes some of the dirty secrets of dumpster diving in this I-Team report.

The Justice Department says dumpster diving is one of the most common ways criminals steal identities. The I-Team found seven unsecured dumpsters at several professional buildings around the Garden State. After hours of sorting, the I-Team found enough paperwork and information to steal more than a dozen people?s identities. All of the information was thrown away, despite a state law that requires businesses to destroy personal information. Most of the businesses, when confronted by the I-Team were quick to take responsibility. Many of the businesses also said they will do a better job of shredding clients? personal information.

New Jersey?s Identity Theft Prevention Act took effect in January of this year. The law states that when a business throws out confidential customer records, it has to shred, erase or otherwise make sure no one can put them back together. According to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Acting Director Steven Nolan, there is a penalty of up to $10,000 per occurrence and up to $20,000 for repeat offenders. Nolan says there haven?t been any penalties yet because the agency is working on getting the word out first. Nolan promises his agency will enforce the law soon.

Click here for Part I of this I-Team investigation Click here for Part II of this I-Team investigation

Related Information: For information on identity theft: Federal Trade Commission US Justice Department Privacy Rights Clearinghouse For your free credit report: AnnualCreditReport.com The Three Major Credit Bureaus: Experian TransUnion Equifax