The most important step to take in protecting yourself from identity theft is assuring your sensitive information is secure — whether on paper, online, stored on your computer, or a mobile device. 

There are four main ways to protect your information:

1. Know who you share information with.
2. Store and dispose of your personal information securely.
3. Ask questions before deciding to share personal information.
4. Maintain appropriate security on your computers and other electronic devices.

• Maintain a written record of the contacts you have made in the process to recover your identity; 
• Document dates, names, phone numbers, report or file numbers and notes from any conversations related to your identity theft;
• Confirm conversations by following up in writing via certified mail so that a return receipt is provided; and
• Send copies only of all documents.

• Ensure passwords used for your credit card, bank, and phone would not be easy for a thief to figure out. Do not use your mother’s maiden name, birthdate, or the last four digits of your social security number;
• Unless you made the initial contact, do not provide personal identifiable information (PII);
• Secure personal information in your home. Especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done on your home;
• Dispose of trash carefully and use a shredder;
• Do not carry your social security number or card in your wallet;
• Keep your purse/wallet in a secure area at work; and
• Do not carry multiple credit and debit cards.

• Ensure virus software is current on your personal computer;
• Use a firewall program;
• Use a secure browser;
• Do not open files sent by strangers;
• Do not store financial information on your laptop; and
• Do not use automatic login features.