• Don't leave purses or wallets unattended.
• Don't leave credit cards, checks, cash or money orders in cars.
• Don't carry credit cards that you don't use.
• Don't carry your Social Security card or have the SSN printed on your driver's license or checks.
• Don't list more than your address and phone number on your check.
• Put outgoing mail in a collection box, not a mailbox.
• Collect mail as soon as possible after delivery.
• Pay attention to billing cycles so you notice missing mail.
• Don't give out personal information by telephone, mail or internet unless you initiated the contact or are familiar with the business.
• Shred billing statements and other documents that could contain personal information.

If you are a victim of identity theft, contact the three main credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your account.
Experian 1-888-EXPERIAN
Equifax 1-800-525-6285
Trans Union 1-800-680-7289

Also be sure to file a report with the proper law enforcement agency.