Identity theft affects almost nine million Americans per year according to the Federal Trade Commission. Identity theft can be costly both in time and money. There are several things you can do to avoid being a victim of identity theft.

The Information Thieves Seek

Thieves can open accounts, make fraudulent charges and apply for jobs if they have some of this information:

• Age
• Date of Birth
• Social Security Number
• Address and Phone Number
• Bank Account Numbers
• Credit Card Numbers
• Driver’s License Number

These pieces of information should never be shared unless you have initiated the business being conducted.

Minimize Opportunities to Get Information

Thieves get information in a variety of ways, including stealing wallets and purses, email phishing scams, and even pulling information from the trash. There are ways to limit how your information becomes available to them.

• Take only the credit cards and identification you need with you. Leave the Social Security Card and credit cards you don’t plan to use at home. Stealing wallets and purses is the most common way thieves get information. The less identifying information in your wallet, the harder it is use your identity.
• Shred bills, bank statements, credit card applications or any other paperwork with identifying information. Use a diamond cut paper shredder and don’t be afraid to shake up a bad of shredded materials. This makes it difficult for thieves to piece together any information and use credit card applications in your name.
• Keep credit cards, personal information, and bank account materials secure at home. A lot of identity theft victims know the person who has stolen from them. Leaving checkbooks, insurance information and items in the open can increase the potential for identity theft.
• Use complex passwords that are combinations of letters and numbers. Also, individualize security questions. Information such as your mother’s maiden name is obtainable through public records.
• Use secure web browsers and avoid wireless connections that aren’t secure. Companies such as Microsoft constantly update software and improve security for web browsers. Make sure you download security updates. Wireless connections in internet cafes, airports and hotels often have spyware connected to them. The best place to use a wireless connection at home as long as you use and update the security features available from your network provider.

Review Your Records

• Check monthly billing statements carefully to ensure you have made all of the purchases, withdrawals and deposits.
• Obtain a credit report once a year. You are entitled to one free credit report per year. Check for any changes in your address and any accounts that have been opened or report late fees. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com to get the report.

Report Suspicious Activity

• If a credit card or checkbook is missing or stolen, report it immediately. This will stop any charges that are being made to your accounts.
• Contact the Federal Trade Commission www.ftc.gov/complaint if you suspect that someone is using your personal information. Information on the lasts scams will also be available.