SECURITY BEGINS TODAY

YOU HAVE ALL THAT PAPER WORK, the spindle receipts, your statement, and maybe even some cancelled checks. The works has very pertinent information about you and must at this point be put under protection. I recommend purchasing an inexpensive cross cut shredder for just these particular moments. Also, statements usually are three pre-holed punched, so buy a cheap three hole book binder. A shoe box works well for cancelled checks ( recommended to keep for 3-5 years for tax purposes). After you have balanced your check book, you no longer need those spindle receipts; keep the one for the new t.v. or i pod and staple it to the information book in case you need to return the product which usually requires a receipt. Otherwise, you can now shred those pesky pieces of paper. Sometimes it's good to keep the latest utility or phone receipt in case of errors or changes to the services. Use to your own discretion, but you can keep them in that same shoe box. By the way, the spindle in your car might be better in the glove compartment or under a seat out of sight. Never know when the wrong environment will appear when least expected. No sense in leaving an open door. And those pre-approved credit card applications? SHRED,SHRED,SHRED!!!! Never just throw these away. Look at that receipt from Wally World, it's got your signature if you used your credit card or ATM debit card. See why these should be shredded?
HAVING YOUR IDENTITY TAKEN OVER CAN and will create a nightmare. Needing to protect your income covers everything you do and how your habits are established. Take that extra minute to proceed with the required actions to secure your property. Be aware of everthing around you. Don't have to be parenoid, just diligent. Can't even begin to know where or what would have to be done to correct a persons identity, but from what I hear it ain't easy!!! Some of the stories, I'm sure, you can find on any blog or news blog out there in cyber space. But, keeping the habit of watching your steps can be a start of controlling your own outcome with how secure your information is kept. For instance, check out secure sites when using a credit card or account information. Find out the rules and deal with good and well known companies. Some of the bigger companies tend to sell some information, but they have private policy issues that they give up front whenever you deal with them. And don't be afraid to ask questions.
A DUMB question is the one not asked.