41 Million Credit and Debit Card Numbers Stolen

Eleven people were recently indicted on multiple charges of fraud and identity theft after stealing more than 41 million credit and debit card numbers, according to Associated Press. The 11 who stole the credit and debt information by hacking into the wireless networks of some of the nation's largest retailers. Among the victimized retailers were Office Max, Barnes and Noble, Forever 21, and DSW.

After the credit card information was stolen it was either sold or encrypted onto credit cards and used to make purchases and withdraw money from ATMs.

Of those charged, three were Americans and one was a U.S. Secret Service informant.

While the reports don't reveal how consumers can know if they were affected, there are ways you can find out. Start by checking your credit card and checking account billing statements, especially if you shopped in any of the stored mentioned. If notice charges you didn't make dispute them with your creditor.

Since the theft involved stolen credit and debt card numbers, it's unlikely that your identity was abused, but it doesn't hurt to check. Free credit reports are available through annualcreditreport.com. 10 Ways to Prevent, Detect, and Fight Identity Theft lists other ways you can find out if your identity has been stolen and tells you what steps to take if you've been a victim.

• How to Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Report
• Should You Freeze Your Credit Report
• Is Credit Monitoring Worth It?