Six Things to Keep Track of to Prevent Identity Theft

In these uncertain financial times it is important now more than ever to protect your personal identity. ID theft can wind up costing consumers thousands of dollars, irreparable damage to their credit report and hours of frustrating work in trying to repair the damage.

Preventing identity theft is important and, fortunately, relatively simple. Common sense and caution will generally win the day. So does keeping track of your personal business. Here are nine things to keep track of to prevent ID theft.

1) Social Security Number - Most people are aware that their social security number is the key to their financial identity. Therefore is should be protected and keep out of the hands of strangers. Whenever possible us an alternative number such as a drivers license number. Never write it or have it printed on your checks. When you do give it out - an occasionally you will have to to employers, accountants, etc. - make sure that you are comfortable with the person or organization to whom you are giving it.

2) Your Spending - Simply keeping an account of your money and where you are spending it can prevent the massive damage of identity theft. Often identity thieves will test the wariness of their victims by starting small. If you know where you've spent your money and keep track of your accounts you can quickly identify problems should they arise.

3) Credit Reports - Credit reports not only should how well you've managed your personal credit, they also show who has been checking your credit and if new accounts have been opened in your name. These can be clues that identity thieves are attempting an attack. The US federal government mandated that all three major credit bureaus make available consumers' credit reports at least once a year. Therefore every 4 months you can, and should, request an updated credit report from one of them. For more information visit AnnualCreditReport.com.

4) Personal Documents and Mail - Any important documents such as birth certificates, medical information, tax records, etc. should be kept locked and secure. Shred any mail that you receive with personal before it is discarding it. This includes the ubiquitous credit card offers that can sometimes to arrive daily.

5) Your Personal Computer - These days many of us use our computer for bank records, to make purchases online, or receive email with any personal information. Make sure that your computer has a good security program with virus blocker and a firewall.

6) Online Purchases - Be wary of websites that don't display and use a current security certificate or list a contact number. If you are considering making a purchase online from a company with whom you are not familiar, check with the Better Business Bureau before using your credit card.

Protecting yourself from identity theft is largely an exercise in common sense and keeping track of the right things. Following these six suggests and relying on your own good judgment can go a long way to foiling ID thieves.

Ray Eddings is a freelance writer. For personal security information and first responder equipment visit http://professionalsuppliesforless.com.