Identity theft has become a fast-growing crime in the state of Louisiana, according to the Federal Trade Commission -- up 37 percent in 2012. And experts tell us ID thieves are finding new ways to scam money in your name.

A potential victim for identity theft doesn't have to be wealthy or even have good credit, says Tami Nealy with the identity theft protection company Lifelock.

"Don't believe that, 'oh, I'm too old for this,' or 'I'm to young for this,' or 'I don't have enough value,'" Nealy warns.  "Identity thieves understand that and understand that when you let your guard down, you're more vulnerable to them."

Nealy says phony credit is just one way identity thieves profit.  She says a growing problem is ID thieves using someone else's data to get government benefits in their name, even file tax returns to get a refund.

"If you go to file your taxes and a thief has already used your name and Social Security number, you're going to get a notice back from the IRS saying that this is a duplicate filing and that you will not be paid out," she said.