[RickM]

The true key to identity theft is your SSN. Whatever you do don't give it to anyone unless absolutely needed. I won't even give it to doctors.

Don't carry your SS card in your wallet and if you have a health insurance card look to see if the number on the card is your SSN. If it is leave the card in a very safe place at home.

Unfortunately many records are stolen from hacking companie's databases, dumpster diving and at "POS". The first two of these issues are being slowly addressed through more stringent security guidelines and laws, such as VISA CISP.