Today I read an article from Newsday dealing with Identify Theft.  It was both scary and informative - still trying to figure out which one it was more of.  Unfortunately there's just no way to fully protect yourself.

Awareness is an effective weapon against many forms identity theft.  Be aware of how information is stolen and what you can do to protect yours, monitor your personal information to uncover any problems quickly, and know what to do when you suspect your identity has been stolen.  Be sure to get a credit report every year - it's free as required by federal law.  Here's where you can go to request it: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

If you are a victim of identify theft (I hope not) you should visit the following link for assistance: http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/idtheft.htm

Here's a link to the article entitled "Several steps can protect against identity theft" BY RANDI F. MARSHALL that provides key advice. 

http://www.newsday.com/business/ny-enid0811,0,1843830.story

I'm going to go run now and get that SS Card out of my wallet!