Media stories about identity theft are common and frequently include suggestions for protecting personal information, whether working online, sending mail, using ATM machines, even when putting sensitive documents in the curbside trash.

Here are some tips that will help you reduce the risk of online identity theft:

§  Don't leave credit card information on Web sites. Although a convenience for automatic, recurring payments, the practice increases risk because the security of your information is no longer in your hands. If the site is compromised by a hacker, your data is there for the taking.

§  Use one credit card with a lower credit limit for all online purchases.

§  Change sign-in information immediately if you suspect a site is not secure.

§  Regularly check your online banking and other accounts for unauthorized purchases or activities.

§  Never provide your Social Security number to an online service without a compelling reason (applying for a loan, filling out government forms, etc.) Always question a site's need to have your SS number.

§  Never provide personal or financial information online unless you initiate the transaction.

§  Watch for security on the sites you access: look for a lock icon in the status bar and Web addresses that start with https-the s is for security.

If you suspect your computer is infected by malware (malicious software), refrain from activities that require user names or passwords until the malware is removed.

Report identity theft as soon as possible. Forms and other necessary information are available from the Federal Trade Commission at

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/

OnGuard Online http://www.onguardonline.gov/ offers tips from the federal government and technology industry on how to avoid Internet fraud and protect your personal information.