Being a victim of identity theft is a harrowing experience that  leaves a trail of devastation that can follow you around for years. When your identity is stolen, not only is your current financial situation put in peril, but your future financial stability is in danger, too. In the high-tech world we live in where personal information is stored on our smartphones, personal tablets and other devices that are easily accessed by identity thieves protecting your identity should be a top priority.

This week, October 21-27, is Protect Your Identity Week. According to ProtectYourIDNow.org, identity theft has been the top consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for the past twelve years in a row. We want you to keep your identity, your family and your finances safe. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that goal.

Do Not Carry Your Social Security Number in Your Wallet. Keep your social security number sacred. Once a thief has this information they can open bank accounts, credit card accounts and file false IRS reports.

Pick Credit, Over Debit. Entering your PIN number is easy, but opting to run your debit card as a credit transaction provides you with extra protection. In addition, do not sign the back of your card with your name. Instead, write SEE ID. Even though a clerk may not always ask for your ID,a potential thief may be dissuaded from using your card if this is displayed.

Check Your Mail. Believe it or not, the majority of people do not check their snail mail on a regular basis. Many people perform their banking and bill paying online, but there are still potential identity stealers sitting in your mailbox such as pre-approved credit card solicitations. Check your mail everyday and shred any personal information before disposing of it.

Do Not Store Personal Information on Your Computer. Or your smartphone. Or in your car’s glove box. Keep your personal passwords, social security numbers, bank account numbers and other personal information in a locked, secured area in your home.

Check Your Credit Regularly.  Even if you have taken every precaution available to keep your information safe, checking your credit regularly will help you stay in control of what information is being reported about you. You can also put an alert on your credit that requires companies to request a password from you before issuing you credit.

Identity thieves steal your personal information for their financial gain without regards to your credit status, your time or your money. By applying these few simple suggestions to your daily life, you can stop a thief in their tracks before they make your financial life a nightmare.

Have you been a victim of ID theft? How did it affect your life?