Seems tedious yes but if your wallet is stolen, all your valuable numbers are left vulnerable to unscrupulous thieves who can compromise your identity. A much simpler way of protecting yourself against identity theft through your social security number is by simply being careful when giving it away. Remember that mostly, only government agencies have the right to ask for your social security number. Other identity numbers, such as specialized ATM s, Credit Cards, Master Cards, issued for high end use, and benefits with high potential credibility, are approved and released on strict and stiff screening process that allow the individual, to use on international travel and expense abroad, instead of carrying cash bulk, or money transfers that entail more time and effort. In recent years, the Internet has become the perfect place for criminals to obtain personal data, such as passwords or even banking information. In their haste to explore the exciting features of the Internet, many people respond to "spam" unsolicited E-mail that promises them some benefit but requests identifying data, without realizing that in many cases, the requester has no intention of keeping his promise. With your credit card records, they may be able to call your credit card issuer and make arrangements to change your billing address. Once it is done, they can then charge purchases on your account without you knowing it. And because your billing statements are being sent to a different address, it may take some time before you become aware that someone is using your card. Signing your credit cards may also be a way for criminals to make use of your signature for fraud. Identity theft can also occur if you have the habit of giving your personal information over the internet. Even keeping your Social Security number on your wallet can make you a victim of identity theft once your wallet is stolen. In short, identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without your knowledge to commit fraud or theft. They open a new credit card account, using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. When they use the credit card and don t pay the bills, the delinquent account is reported on your credit report.