Protect yourself from Identity Theft

Although identity theft and identity fraud have fast become the fastest growing while-collar crime in America, and certainly has gotten a lot of press, there are a few simple steps you can follow to keep from becoming a victim yourself. Most people are under the impression that only people who have a lot of money, or perfect credit, but the fact is many ordinary people who don't have a lot of money, including teenagers are targets of identity fraud too. For the most part, the thief is mostly interested in personal information which is later used usually to rip off banks or credit cards in the victim's name.

Invest in a good paper shredder, and shred all documents containing account numbers, social security numbers before you throw them away. This includes credit card statements, especially those "convenience" or "balance transfer" checks you probably get from your credit card, also loan offers and credit card offers have been the tools of identity thieft. It's better to spend a little more money and get a good one with much closer blade spacing. Cheaper paper shredders barely do an adequate job. If possible, always try to buy American - and NOT "Made in China" to help support American jobs.

When you charge somebody by credit card at the store, always ask the clerk for the carbon copy if they still use them. Surprisingly, dumpster diving is still responsible for most identity thefts.