Now, identity theft is no longer a dream for some hackers and internet con artists. One can even say that with their techniques and expertise, it will be like taking candy from a baby yet this time, it involves more than sweets. Life is at stake, personal and social life. How can someone steal your identity? Aside from using influence over one s name thru purported deceptions, he will continue committing bad actions under one s name to destroy long-established good reputation. Identity theft and fraud is one bundle of gigantic crime package that could start with a solicitous demand of one s social security, or telephone number. The first thing that any individuals wanting to be protected from identity number theft must do is to be informed and educated. Each and everyone of us should be aware of the procedure o protect our personal number from identity number thieves. Below are some tips on how to protect yourself from identity number theft. Although, as the disclaimer at the end of these films say, these stories are fictitious, there is indeed cause for alarm for things like these happening to you. Identity theft is a growing problem and once you've been victimized, a whole slew of difficulties will arise from this crisis. Don't panic just yet though. Carefully destroy the documents that you throw out, especially those with sensitive or identifying information. A crosscut paper shredder works best. Be suspicious of telephone solicitors that call you at your office. Never provide information unless you have initiated the call. Delete and do not reply to any suspicious email requests. This is not completely secure but some institutions will offer identity theft protection for a fee and perhaps it's better to do business with financial institutions like these for proper risk management. However, there may be some retail outlets, like video stores and the like that will ask for your social security number.