Identity theft occurs when someone wrongfully uses your personal identification and information to obtain credit, loans, services, or even mortgages in your name. If your identity is stolen and used, it can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You may not know it for months or even years.

Is there a guaranteed fool-proof way of protecting yourself? No. But with a few basic protective measures you can make it more difficult for a criminal to steal your personal information. Remember, most criminals are opportunists. They are looking for the quick hit, a victim that is careless and not paying attention.

There are three very important pieces of information a thief is looking for. They are what we know as your personal identifiers: your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. With your personal identifiers, a thief can assuming your identity and buy that fancy sports car you have always talked about.

Identities are not only stolen by taking your wallet or purse. It can happen at the offices of doctors, accountants, lawyers, loan officers, health insurers, schools, courts, or even at your favorite restaurant. A shady employee has access to your personal identifiers and can sell your identity to anyone.

Here are a few basic protective measures that can help lessen your chances of becoming a victim:

1. Shred everything. You can purchase a cross-cut type shredder for $50 to $100. Shred all your important papers. Anything that has any portion of your personal identifiers should be shredded, especially pre-approved credit applications. They are not just junk mail. A thief can use that application along with your personal identifiers and open credit in your name. A good rule to follow: when in doubt – shred it!

2. Password-protect everything. Passwords are not just for emails and the Internet.  You can ask that a password be placed on all of your personal accounts – credit cards, home and cell phones, utility, and bank accounts. Change them often. Make all the passwords different for all of your accounts. It will be a burden for you but it will make it harder for a thief.

3. Be aware of dumpster divers. Most of us put the trash out the night before it is to be picked up. The problem is that once your trash is on the sidewalk or in the street, it is accessible to the public. Make sure that you do not throw anything away that has any portion of your personal identifiers on it without shredding it first. Also, put the trash out as close to pickup time as possible. Again, do not make it easy for someone to become you.

4. Get a locking mailbox or use a post office box. Mail theft is quick and easy.  Remember it is all about the opportunity. If sending a personal check or anything else that has a portion of your personal identifiers on it, do not put it in your unsecured mailbox. It’s easy to change the name of the recipient. It also gives a thief your name, address, bank name, account number, and routing information.

5. Be careful of information infiltrators. An observant thief is a successful one. When using an ATM, debit card or even a retail discount card, ensure that you are not supplying the person around you with your PIN. You also need to be careful what you say while on your cell phone. We all like the idea of constant communication. We can take a call anytime, anywhere. Be aware that while you may be talking to the person on the other end, you are also talking to everyone else around you.

6. Know yourself and your family. Memorize dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, credit card numbers, and, if traveling, your passport number. Do not carry around your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport unless absolutely necessary. Keep them in a locked box at home. Also memorize the passwords to your accounts. If you have them lying around there is a greater chance a thief can take them.

7. Empty your wallet and purse. You are not a pack mule. Get rid of any credit or debit cards you are not using and do not carry anything that has any portion of your personal identifiers that is not needed. Only carry with you what is needed for the moment. File or shred your receipts and other important papers regularly. Try not to carry more than you will need to identify yourself.

8. Don’t talk to strangers. We tell our kids that all the time but do we follow that advice ourselves? If someone calls you and is asking for personal information, ask for a telephone number where they can be reached so you can call them back. This will ensure they are legitimate and not a scam artist. When in a doctor’s office or similar setting,
make sure the information you are providing is needed by that office. Also ensure there are no strange ears listening in on your conversations.

9. Your Social Security number is your lifeline – guard it! Believe it or not, most governmental, financial, and private agencies track us by our Social Security numbers. If at all possible, when asked for your Social Security number, try to provide some other form of identification like a driver’s license number. If you are required to provide a Social Security number, ask to see a privacy notice. One should be provided to you.

10. Don’t ask, don’t tell. If you are not asked for information, why give it? Do not provide your telephone number, driver’s license number, or Social Security number unless they are requested. If paying a bill with a check, do not put the corresponding account number in the memo section. If paying with a credit card, ensure the vendor’s machine did not put your entire card number on the receipt. Do not put your address, telephone number or driver’s license number on the receipt.

11. Surf with caution. The Internet is an exciting place, but computer hacking is a prime source for identity thieves. Download and install all updates to the computers operating system. Use up-to-date spy ware, virus protection and firewall programs and pop-up blockers. If you have a wireless network at home, make sure the transmission is encrypted. Never keep credit card numbers, passwords, or any portion of your personal identifiers on your computer.

12. Monitor your statements. Every month carefully review your bank and credit card statements. Check to see if there is anything that you do not recognize. If there is, call the credit grantor immediately to verify it is your transaction. Order your credit report at least twice a year. Call the credit reporting agencies and request a copy of your report.  If you find anything unfamiliar or fraudulent, report it immediately. The bureaus and their numbers are: Experian – (888) 567-8688; Equifax – (888) 567-8688; and TransUnion – (888) 567-8688.

If there is a problem, immediately correct all mistakes on your credit reports in writing. Send the letters “return receipt requested” and identify the problems item by item with a copy of the credit report. You should hear from the agencies within 30 days.