Question: Identity theft seems to be a popular topic lately. Do you have any tips for what I can do to keep myself from becoming a victim?

Answer: Many people think that they will never become a victim of identity theft.

But, think of the things you do in the course of the day that you don't give a second thought -- write a check, pay for dinner with your credit card, mail your tax return or throw away yet another credit card offer or set of convenience checks.

You could be at risk and not even know it.

So, how can your identity be stolen? Your mailbox can be a treasure trove of information that people would love to get their hands on -- credit card offers, bank statements, credit card statements, tax information.

It takes only a minute for someone to steal a purse left unattended at the grocery store.

Think about all the personal information in your purse or wallet. (How many people reading this right now have their Social Security card in their purse or wallet? Take it out now).

Although it's unlikely people will go through your garbage while the trash cans sit at the curb, people do go through garbage at the trash dump.

Don't make this easy for them. Shred, tear or cut up your information before throwing it away

Here are some tips to help you take an active role in protecting your information and identity.

• Check your credit once a year by ordering your credit reports from each of the three major credit bureaus every 12 months for free.

You can order either online at www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling toll-free at 1-877-322-8228.

This clearinghouse is the only place to get a free credit report with no hidden fees or strings attached.

• Place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts. This eliminates people being able to access these accounts over the phone or Internet.

• Pay attention to all of your billing statement cycles. Know approximately when bills typically arrive in your mailbox. Call your creditor if you don't receive a bill when you should.

Carefully review your billing statements for unusual activity. Always balance your checkbook using your bank statement.

• Reduce access to your personal data. Don't keep your Social Security card, extra credit cards, birth certificate, or passport in your purse or wallet.

Don't have your driver's license number or Social Security number printed on your checks. Consider having only your name and phone number listed in the phone book -- no address.

• Shred, shred, shred

• Ask about information security procedures in your workplace. Make sure your purse is locked up and not left in the open.

• Be protective of your personal information. If an organization, doctor's office or hospital asks for your Social Security number, ask why they need it. If they don't have a legal reason for requesting it, don't give it out.

Don't give out your personal information to anyone over the phone or Internet unless you initiated the contact.

• Opt out of receiving credit card offers by calling toll-free 1-888-5OPTOUT or www.optout prescreen.com.

First Published: September 21, 2008, 8:00 a.m.