Identity theft happens in many different ways from misuse of your social security number, checks, credit cards, drivers license and so on.

Fortunately, there are many easy tips you can use to prevent misuse of your identity. Do not presume them to be completely effective. But they can make you less likely to be a random victim.

All those medical bills,bank statements that arrive in your mail regularly are a big area of concern, mainly because they contain so much personal information.

You would think in this computer-centric world, they could finally put a stop to all of these paper bills and documents and just send you everything electronically but that is not going to happen yet.

For now, you have to ensure that all such stuff is destroyed by shredding. This can be a daunting task to do by hand so an electric shredder is the best way to go. A little common sense and knowledge can go a long way in protecting you from identity theft.

You can put the shredded stuff to good use also, like bedding for pets.

There is much more to identity sensitive information than just medical documents and bank statements. Avoid keeping your checkbook, birth certificate, or social security card in your wallet or purse.

Your top most worry is checks.

They not only have your personal information, they have your bank account number and routing number right there. Some people even put their social security number right on the check!! DO NOT do that.