Shielding your private information with no risk of a breakdown may be impossible these days. But there are some simple ways to protect you from becoming a victim of Identity Theft. Use these simple, but very important, tips to protect you and your name.

1. Destroy private records and statements. Tear up – or, if you prefer, shred – credit card statements, solicitations, and other documents containing private financial information.

2. Secure your mail. Empty your mailbox quickly, lock it or get a P.O. box taking away the chance of criminals snatching credit card solicitations. Never mail outgoing bill payments and checks from home. They can be stolen from your mailbox and the payee’s name erased with solvents. Mail them from the post office or another secure location.

3. Safeguard your Social Security number. Never carry your card with you, or any other card that may have your number, like a health insurance card. Certainly don’t put your number on your checks. Social Security numbers are the primary target for identity thieves because they give them access to your credit report and bank accounts.

4. Don’t leave a paper trail. Never leave an ATM, credit card or gas station receipt behind.

5. Never let your credit card out of your sight. Worried about credit card skimming? Always keep an eye on your card or, when that’s not possible, pay with cash.

6. Know who you’re dealing with. Whenever anyone contacts you asking for private or financial information, make no response other than to find out who they are, what company they represent and the reason for the call. If you think the request is legitimate, contact the company yourself and confirm what you were told before revealing any of your personal data.

7. Take your name off marketers’ hit lists. In addition to the national Do-Not-Call registry (1-888-382-1222), you can also cut down on junk mail and opt out of credit card solicitations.

8. Be more defensive with personal information. Ask salespeople and others if information such as Social Security or driver’s license numbers are absolutely necessary. Ask anyone who does require your Social Security number about their privacy policy and let them know you do not want your information given to anyone else.

9. Monitor your credit report. Obtain and thoroughly review your credit report (check for a free copy at www.Annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877-322-8228) at least once a year to check for suspicious activity. If you find something, alert your card company or the creditor immediately. You may also look into credit protection services, which alert you any time a change takes place with your credit report.

10. Review your credit card statements carefully. Make sure you recognize the merchants, locations and purchases listed before paying the bill. If you don’t need or use department-store or bank-issued credit cards, consider closing the accounts.