Identity theft has always been a serious issue, but it is become more problematic as the economy worsens and people look for other ways to obtain cash, jobs and credit. The number of criminal identity theft cases is on the increase, but as criminals become more ingenious, it becomes more difficult to arrest and prosecute the offenders.

Protect Your Social Security Number

Since thieves need a social security number to obtain credit or even a driver's license, the first step you should follow is social security identity theft protection. If thieves are unable to obtain your social security number, it is less likely they will be able to do anything to damage your reputation or credit. This begins by not providing your social card as identification. Although the card clearly states it is not to be used for that purpose, many places still attempt to ask for it for that purpose. Only an employer, insurance company, taxing agency or creditor should have access to that information.

Protect Your Children's Records

With child identity theft becoming such a big commodity in the market, it's important for you to protect your children's information. Child identity theft protection is essential for your children's future financial well-being. Some of the things you want to do to ensure you protect your children from identity thieves include the following:

• Never carry your child's social security card with you—keep it locked up at home, preferably in a safe
• Never provide your child's social security number to anyone without knowing why. This should only be necessary when registering your child for school or obtaining insurance. When your child is older it will be necessary to obtain a driver's license or job.
• Keep a routine check on your child's credit report. Do not assume there will not be a file until after he or she is 18. If identity thieves access the information, your child's credit can be ruined before the age of 18.

For more information on identity theft and how to protect your family visit Legal-Yogi .

Paying for Protection

Hiring an identity theft protection company may sound like an unnecessary luxury, but if you want to protect your personal information, it may actually be a necessity. Some people feel safer when they know someone else is looking out for them, and the security of hiring someone is certainly worth that peace of mind.

The number of criminal id theft cases is on the increase but unfortunately this is not necessary equivalent to the number of cases that actually come into court for sentencing. One of the biggest deterrents to these cases is social security identity theft protection. Another important step in today's world is child identity theft protection because criminals are now looking toward children since it will take longer for the theft to be uncovered. All of these new developments are causing many people to take the extra precaution of hiring an identity theft protection company.