Ten Ways to Prevent Identity Theft

Frank Abagnale, author of "Catch Me If You Can," shares his top 10 ways to protect yourself against the threat of identity theft. Abagnale is one of the world's most respected authorities on the subjects of forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. For more than 30 years he has lectured to and consulted with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations and government agencies around the world.

1) Protect your credit

Check your credit report regularly to make sure there are no fraudulent credit cards opened in your name. All it takes is a stolen Social Security Number and someone can set up a new credit card account with a fake address and phone number.

2) Shred it for safety

Invest in a shredder. When disposing of sensitive materials, especially financial statements and pre-approved credit card offers, destroy them first. Crosscut shredders dice junk mail into tiny squares instead of strips like traditional shredders, and microcut shredders turn paper into confetti for maximum security.

3) Double check credit card statements

As soon as your statement arrives go over it, with a fine-tooth comb if necessary, to make sure you actually made all the purchases listed. If there are any discrepancies or signs of fraudulent activity, deal with it right away. The sooner the better.

4) Secure the office front

You know the drill: Put your purse, wallet or valuables in a locked drawer. But don't stop there. Ask questions about how the company protects your personal information. Find out who has access to your direct deposit information, social security number, home address, etc.

5) Be careful when sharing

Shhh...keep it secret. Don't give out personal information over the phone, mail or Internet unless you really know who you are dealing with.

6) Be smart about ATMs

Pay attention when using an ATM and keep your eyes peeled for anyone who seems a little too interested in your transactions. When possible, use your free hand to shield the keypad when entering your PIN. Also, try to avoid "sketchy" ATMS. Some ATMs have been set up to copy your account number while still giving you money, leaving you none the wiser.

7) Use a "real" password

While it is tempting to use the same short and simple combination for all your accounts, it makes it that much easier for someone to steal access to your accounts. You should use a "strong" random combination of letters, numbers and symbols for increased protection. Using your dog's name or your favorite color doesn't count.

8) Protect your Social Security Number at all costs

When companies ask for your Social Security Number, ask why they need it and how they will safeguard it. It's your SSN after all. If you are uncomfortable giving it out, just say no. Also, try not to let companies use your SSN as an identification number, especially if it will appear multiple times. If your driver's license number is your SSN, ask to have it changed.

9) Keep your credit cards to a minimum

The fewer credit cards you have, the better. Only keep the ones you actually use or plan on using. If you have one for every day of the month, that's probably too many. Also, keep organized records of all your credit cards and their billing cycle so you can report a theft promptly and thoroughly.

10) Secure your computer

Install a firewall and antivirus software. This will help prevent hackers from gaining illicit access to your computer. Also protect any credit cards or account numbers with an encrypted password, just in case.