In today’s world, it is nearly impossible to keep all of your information completely private. A visit to a store usually results in someone handling or viewing your credit card or personal check. At restaurants, your credit or debit card is taken somewhere beyond your view for processing. Checks can be seen by any number of people who may handle the check. It is not feasible to eliminate all opportunities for identity theft, but you can make it more difficult for someone to steal your personal information.

1. Do not print your Social Security number on your personal checks. Don’t let store personnel write your number on your checks either.

2. Do not carry your Social Security card with you unless you need it. Keep it in a secure place along with your Birth certificate, and passports.

3. Get a lockable mailbox, use a mail slot, or rent a Post Office Box. Thieves often steal mail, which may contain personal information.

4. When paying bills by mail, do not leave the outgoing bill with your personal check in your unsecured home mailbox. Drop them off at a U.S. Postal Service mail center.

5. Keep a list of all your credit card numbers, bank account numbers, and phone numbers for your credit providers. Keep this information in a secure place in case you need to call your bank or credit providers.

6. Always take credit or debit card receipts with you. Do not throw them away or leave them with the merchant. Shred them when you return home.

7. Never give out your credit or debit card to someone who calls you on the phone.

8. Use good passwords for credit accounts. Use passwords that are different from your address, birthdates, middle name, or mother's maiden name. Your mother's maiden is quite likely to be found on your credit report.

9. Look behind you before entering your personal PIN numbers at an ATM or debit card machine.

10. Beware of e-mail alerts asking you to “verify” your personal information, credit card numbers, social security number, or date of birth.

11. Keep your numbers to yourself. Don't put credit card numbers on bills or envelopes. Don't give account numbers over the phone unless you made the call. Always shred pre-approved credit card applications before throwing them away. If you don’t own a shredder, throw the applications away in parts over a
    few days.

12. Ask questions of businesses who request your personal information. Request how your personal information will be used, and how it will be disposed of once it is no longer needed.

13. Check your statement. Check your billing statements each month for any unusual charges and report them immediately. If you don’t receive your statement on time, call your credit provider to make sure that someone has not stolen your bill.

14. Ask for a credit report often. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus. Request a copy of your credit report at least once a year.