Identity theft happens to more than eight million people annually, according to statistics from 2006. This has caused an onslaught of companies offering services to prevent identity theftfor a price. There are measures that the average consumer can take on a day-to-ay basis that will go a long way to preventing identity theft. These measures include guarding your privacy and personal information, shredding your mail and outdated financial documents, monitoring your credit reports, and possibly purchasing identity theft insurance which wont stop identity theft from happening to you but will prevent identity theft from eating up your savings and ruining your credit for a long time.

Guard Your Privacy

Most people don't know their rights with their privacy information, nor do they know how companies treat their personal data. Most people are aware that they shouldn't give out personal information through an emailed link or through a telemarketer. But, it is still a challenge for most people when they are faced with an "official" sounding company who is asking for personal information. Of course, identity theives are aware of this- they are impersonating collections agencies, good will agencies, and medical facilities. When someone is on the phone pressuring you that a loved one is in danger, or your house may be foreclosed on, you are faced with conflicting feelings when they are asking for your social security number.

Shred Your Mail

You should shred all financial documents that you don't need for your taxes- bank and credit card statements, offers for credit cards that come in your name, utility bills, etc. Purchase a crosscut shredder for the most security. By shredding documents this way, it will decrease the chance that someone will steal your documents from your information.

Monitor Your Credit Reports

A new law that took effect a few years ago entitles every consumer to one free annual credit report from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus: Experian, Trans Union, and Equifax. If you choose to space your reports, you can obtain a credit report every four months. Monitoring this information on your credit report is a huge step in keeping identity theft from happening to you.

Consider Purchasing Identity Theft Insurance

Identity theft insurance won't help prevent identity theft. It can, however, make getting back on track after identity theft occurs. Typically a policy will cover out of pocket expenses, as well as any charges you are responsible for. Most companies won't find you personally responsible for charges made by an identity theif, but it's best to check to make sure. Identity theft insurance is very reasonable- priced between $25 to $50 a year for between $15,000 to $20,000 in coverage.