Shopping online. Visiting the doctor. Buying gas. In nearly all of the things we do from day to day, there’s the risk of identity theft.

The risks your identity faces go on and on. While virtually no one can completely negate the risk, we can all take important steps to help prevent it.

1. Limit what you carry in your wallet. Don’t carry your Social Security card; keep it in a locked safe. Carry only the credit cards you need.
2. Keep electronics secure. Use strong passwords, install firewall software, and keep operating systems up to date.
3. Don’t over-share. Question whether an entity truly needs your full SSN before providing it.
4. Check credit reports. Regularly review your credit history from the three major bureaus for unrecognized accounts.
5. Monitor accounts. Check bank statements and credit card bills frequently for unauthorized charges.
6. Watch your surroundings. Use caution when entering PINs in public. Avoid sensitive transactions on unsecured public Wi-Fi.
7. Reduce physical mail. Opt out of pre-approved credit offers and enroll in paperless billing.
8. Be skeptical. Beware of "phishing" scams. Never provide sensitive information to callers or emails you have not independently verified.
9. Mind your garbage. Shred documents containing personal information (statements, pre-approved offers) before recycling.
10. Tidy up at home. Store sensitive documents like passports and tax returns in a secure, locking cabinet or safe.

If you discover your identity has been stolen, act immediately: file a report with the Federal Trade Commission and contact local law enforcement.