The Better Business Bureau is issuing a warning. They say con artists impersonating census workers are trying to steal your personal information. To protect yourself from identity theft there are a few things you can do. The most important one is asking for the census worker's badge. "Do they have the proper paperwork, badges, bills of sale that they need to make sure they check out before they let somebody enter their home," says Major Mike Brown with the Scott County Sheriff's Department.

A badge isn't the only way to verify a census worker. They also carry a canvas bag that identifies them, a small hand held computer and a confidentiality note. "They will not ask for any information about where you bank, your credit cards if anybody asks you that it's a red flag. It's a sign your dealing with someone who's trying to scam you," says Chris Coleman, President of the Better Business Bureau of Iowa and the Quad Cities.

Census workers won't ask to enter your home. If someone posing as a worker does, it's advised you question their motives. Major Brown adds, "Are they trying to do something once they're in there. Are they trying to hurt somebody, are they trying to get the layout of the residence, so they can come back later on."

There are workers out now verifying addresses. At the beginning of the year, you'll receive a questionnaire, the Better Business Bureau says it's better to mail the form back right away. If you don't that's when a census worker will visit your home. "That's why we strongly encourage people to receive written materials when they receive it after the first of the year," says Coleman.

Another scam to be aware of is in your e-mail. The census form will only arrive by mail. Coleman adds, "Those are all a scam and no one should open up an email."

If you do encounter someone posing as a census worker, you should call the police and the Better Business Bureau. That way both agencies can track where the con artists are.