ChoicePoint Inc., another consumer data collection service, stated 145,000 people in their database were possibly exposed to identity thieves earlier this year. At DSW Shoe Warehouse, officials acknowledged stolen credit information at 103 of its 175 stores nationwide. Hackers have also targeted databases at California State University as well as University of California, San Diego.

Many consumers now fear that using internet puts them at a higher risk of identity theft. However, surveys have shown that only 10 percent of known identity theft cases have resulted from online fraud. Dumpster diving along with phone scams account for far more ID theft than internet.

In fact you can use internet to help protect yourself from this crime in three unique ways:

1) View your banking and credit accounts online. Almost all banks and credit card companies have secure web sites that allow you to view your statements and activity safely online. Secure sites are those that begin with https// or display a padlock icon on your computer screen.

NEVER access a financial site through a link embedded in an e-mail message. E-mails with links asking you to verify or re-register your personal information are a sure sign of “phishing”, a scam to collect your name and other identifying information to steal your identity.

Instead, type bank or creditor’s website address into your browser. Check your accounts every two weeks. Verify that credits and debits shown on statements are valid. Report any suspicious activity immediately to your bank or creditor.

Understanding difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan.

At their very basic, loans come in two kinds: secured and unsecured. Whether you are looking into business loans or personal loans, they will either be secured or unsecured. Credit cards, which are basically consumer loans, are also denoted with these names. However, you will find that most credit cards are unsecured, unless they have a very high limit.