One of the most important places to guard your information is of course at the ATM machine. While entering your PIN number, be sure no one is looking over your shoulder in an attempt to easily access your information. When using a credit card, require any merchants to ask for ID confirmation when signing your name. This adds another step of security to deter any criminals. It is best to shred any pieces of mail or bills with personal information on them, such as credit card statements. Identity thieves have been known to go through trash in an attempt to collect personal information. And of course, remember to protect your Social Security number. Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse, don’t use the last four digits as your PIN number, and do not use your number in any computer or program passwords. 

By remaining alert and keeping your guard up, you can safeguard your identity and keep any potential identity thieves at bay.