In 2003, consumer fraud and identity theft cost at least $ 437,000,000 dollars. Federal Trade Commission received 247,000 consumer complaints in 2004 (up 15% from 2003), from individuals whose identity is stolen, and according to Reuters.com (2 / 2005), Americans lost $ 548,000,000 dollars to identity theft and consumer fraud in 2004. How Personal and Internet Security Works illustrates in vivid detail the many dangers faced by those who use the Internet to send or receive emails, surf the Web, conduct personal business, using credit cards, or even a trip to the airport and how the hazard can be solved.