A Calgary family is facing hundreds of identity theft charges and the case has prompted the Better Business Bureau to issue a warning to consumers.

Five members of a local family are accused of stealing the identities of almost 20 people and racking up nearly $56,000 in Home Depot credit card charges between March 2012 and October 2013.

Police say several vehicles were targeted by thieves who collected personal information from paperwork in the vehicles and then applied for the charge cards using the names of the owners.

The BBB is warning consumers to protect their personal information in light of the charges and says anyone can become a victim.

"It can be as simple as saying the wrong thing at the wrong time with the wrong person within earshot," said Sandra Crozier-McKee, president and CEO of BBB Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay. "Everyone should try to make it as difficult as possible for scammers to access their data. If you're unsure about how to protect your information, check with your BBB for trustworthy fraud prevention consumer tips."

The Consumer Sentinel Network says there were 290,000 complaints about identity theft across North America in 2013 and that more than 49,000 of those were credit card fraud complaints.

BBB tips for avoiding identity theft:

  • Safeguard your Social Insurance Number. If asked for it, don't automatically give it. Ask how it will be used. Before providing it verbally, check to see who might be listening. Don't carry your Social Insurance card with you. Also, don't have your Social Insurance Number printed on your driver's license or cheques.
  • Don't carry official documents regularly. Your birth certificate, Social Insurance card, bank statements, passport, or extra credit cards should be kept in a secure, locked location and only taken with except when necessary.
  • Don't leave mail in your mailbox overnight or on the weekends. Deposit outgoing mail in Canada Post collection boxes. You may consider installing a locking mailbox.
  • Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Always install any updates to your computer's operating system or browser software, and make sure your firewall is turned on.
  • Always check your credit or debit card statements closely for any suspicious activity.  The sooner you identify and report any potential fraud, the less you'll suffer in the long run.
  • Check your credit report at least once a year.  Check your credit score with  TransUnion or Equifax.  Look for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies that could affect your ability to receive loans or other financial aid.
  • Check with BBB. Verify suspicious websites and businesses by looking for the BBB Accredited Business Seal. Also check BBB Business Reviews online.