Protect Your Personal Information
Your personal information is valuable. Taking just a few simple steps can make a big difference. For example,

• Shred sensitive documents instead of simply throwing them away,
• Do not reveal birthdate, social security, or other sensitive information over the phone if you did not initiate the call, and/or
• Don't send post cards to any organization with personal information, or signatures without enclosing in an envelope.

Also, be absolutely sure you know who you're dealing with before giving any personal or financial information. For more information on protecting your personal information, check out OnGuard Online, a site created by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Avoid Using Your Social Security Number
Ask companies and government agencies you do business with if you can create an alternate customer identifier. Most good companies will accomidate you with this request. However, there still may be situations where you may be required to provide your social security number. If at all possible, don't use it as an id to access information in your account.

Monitor Your Accounts and Financial Statements
Maintaining a close eye on your account(s), you can spot suspicious activity and take steps to notify officials. The accounts that you hold with your bank, phone company, utility companies and ecommerce providers should be monitored regularly.
Promptly read any statements or correspondence when they arrive. Make sure there are no changes or transactions you did not initiate.
If a bill arrives unusually late or not at all, call the company.
Also, order a credit report every year to ensure that your credit reports are accurate.

Get a copy of Your Credit Reports
As of September 1, 2005, US residents are can receive one free credit report every 12 months. These reports are from each of the three nationwide consumer credit reporting agencies:

• Equifax, 800-685-1111,
• Experian, 888-397-3742, and
• TransUnion, 800-916-8800.

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Be sure to monitor these reports for inaccuracies.

Do NOT use Email to send Personal or Financial Data
Most e-mail is unsecured or not encrypted. In Wifi areas, such as cafes, airports, and other public areas, hackers can often download your emails as you send it through the respective systems. Even in regular connections to the internet, people with some minimual equipment can observe the email messages you send.
Email is not a trusted method to send sensitive information. However, if necessary and only if absolutely necessary, see if the information can be sent in sequential emails, thus the information is not transmitted in a bundle making it easier to obtain.
You should never send your social security number in this manner.