Based just on a name, and an address, crooks can purchase parts of a deceased person's information from other crooks. This bits can be used to open up new bank accounts, credit cards, get a Social Security card, or used as a mask to conduct further crime.

TODAY advises:

• Don't include DOB , address, or where the person was born in obituaries
• Close all accounts as soon as possible
• Tell the Social Security Administration that the person is dead

Dealing with a close friend or family member's death is already hard enough, but if you take the proper steps you can prevent further complication by preventing their exploitation by identity thieves. — BEN POPKEN

RELATED: HOW TO: Handle Closing Dead People's Accounts