How to protect your identity

I've been told that having a blog is dangerous because someone can take my information for this site making me a victim of identity theft. The government claims that the primary techniques used to obtain someone identity is through stealing mail, rummaging through garage, and stealing personal information in computer databases.

The top three recommendations to prevent ID theft:

1. Freeze your credit. So no one can open any forms of credit in your name.
2. Check your credit annually
3. Minimize the use of mail for sending or receiving information with your name. Mail letters only at the post office. Install a lock on your mailbox.

Below I've outlined some additional ways to protect your personal information.

1. Only carry your credit card in your wallet when you plan to use it that day. Only carry an ATM card if it is secure. Never carry your SSN in your wallet.

2. What's on your checks? Do you have your SSN, driver’s license number, address, or even your full name? If so you’re in danger of having your identity stolen. On my checks I only have my initials, "JG".

3. Add a security number to your credit cards and your bank account. Often they ask for your mother's maiden name... instead ask to have a password added to your account.

You can find additional information about protecting your ID at the Identify Theft Resource Center.