The growing problem of identity theft was recently highlighted in an article on CreditCards.com. The article cites studies from the past year that illustrate this growing problem, including some frightening statistics. According to a study conducted by the Poneman Institute, an independent research group out of Michigan, 55% of study participants suffered at least two breaches in their personal information in the past two years alone.

Also, Javelin Study and Research reported that the number of identity theft victims rose in 2008 by 25%, to a startling 9.9 million people affected; this is equal to one person every four seconds. The article also points to one disturbing recent case, in which the information of tens of thousands of credit card customers was compromised due to a security breach. Heartland Payment Systems, a financial transactions company that processes payments for 250,000 customers, announced the breach last month, which may result in the most extensive identity theft case to date.

So, with all the potential to have their information stolen, how are consumers supposed to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft?

CreditCards.com turned to a variety of expert sources, including ID Watchdog president Jason Yurek, to come up with a list of six tips that individuals can use to protect their identity.

1. Be aware – Be on the lookout for any suspicious communication from credit cards or collections agencies with whom you are not affiliated.

2.Act fast – “Oftentimes thieves will use your credit card data to commit non-financial identity theft crimes which become much larger problems,” says Yurek. Be sure to get on top of the problem before the thieves can cause too much damage.

3.Prevention defense – Keep all of your personal account information secret, carefully scrutinize your credit card statements for transactions not made by you, and sign up to receive alerts for potentially fraudulent activity.

4.Check URLs – “With phishing schemes becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is important to ensure that you are doing business with the person you think you are and not an imposter,” says Yurek. Always verify that the URL is correct before entering any of your private data.

5.Play it close to the vest – Be careful with your sensitive information. Do not carry your passport or social security card, and only give out your social security number if absolutely necessary.

6.Contact the authorities – Do not delay in getting help if you suspect you’ve been a victim of identity theft. Besides the local police, contact the Federal Trade Commission to file a complaint if you are a victim of identity theft.

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