WASHINGTON-Last week, the Federal Trade Commission's National Consumer Protection Week targeted the growing problem of identity theft. The FTC promoted its seventh annual NCPW Feb. 6-12, which the FTC holds in cooperation with federal, state and local agencies, and national advocacy organizations. The theme for 2005 was "Identity Theft: When Fact Becomes Fiction." Approximately 10 million Americans are impacted by identity theft every year. "We're committed to working with our partners to give consumers the information they need to fight identity theft and other consumer fraud," FTC's Acting Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection Lydia Parnes said. "National Consumer Protection Week is a great opportunity for organizations across the country to teach consumers about their rights." Throughout the week, participating agencies worked to help consumers and business ward off identity theft and help victims restore their personal histories. A Web site, www.consumer.gov/ncpw, was established to provide helpful information to consumers and businesses on phishing, various types or fraud, and information theft. It also offers information on the steps for victims to take. Organizations interested in promoting NCPW were encouraged to click on the "Outreach Toolkit," which included downloadable materials, such as a poster, flyer, sample press materials, public service announcements, Web-ready logos, banner ads, and buttons.