Many items can be replaced if stolen, but your identity is one of the exceptions. “It can take a year or more to resolve identity theft,” says Jamie Eberl, Financial Center Manager with Fifth Third Bank. “Although nothing can guarantee you won’t become a victim, there are things you can do to protect yourself.”

Tips to reduce your risk
Eberl recommends the following to help reduce your risk of becoming a victim:

• Protect your social security number – Avoid carrying your social security card in your wallet or including the number on your driver’s license or checks. Also, don’t use it to apply for a credit card or loan online or by phone unless you are the one who initiated the communication.

• Take precautions with your trash and mail – Any documents containing your full name, social security number, address, or financial and health information should be shredded before going into the trash. Identity thieves can use this information to apply for credit, loans, housing and employment in your name. In addition, make sure you remove mail from your mailbox each day and if you plan to be away, request a vacation hold with the U.S. Postal Service.

• Verify sources before sharing information – If you are unsure about a request for personal information made by e-mail or phone, it doesn’t hurt to double check the source. Consider calling the phone number listed on a recent account statement or one that’s in the phone book. Keep in mind that most financial organizations don’t request personal information by e-mail or phone. If you receive such a request, or any other suspicious communications, you need to contact your financial organization for clarification.

• Pick better passwords – Although using the same password for multiple accounts may simplify things for you, it also makes it easier for identity thieves to access your personal information. Avoid using easy to guess passwords, such as your birthday, phone number or zipcode. Instead, use unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Consider using a combination of numbers, letters and symbols. Keep your passwords safe by storing them away from your computer in a locked drawer or file cabinet.

• Use safe Internet practices – Start by installing up-to-date anti-virus software on your computer. Also, look for a small “lock” or “key” icon in the lower right corner of your screen when using the Internet. This signifies the Web site you are using is secure and properly encrypted. Finally, avoid banking or shopping online from a public computer.

Regularly reviewing your accounts can help you avoid becoming a victim of identity theft. Using online or mobile banking services for 24-7 access to your accounts can help you stay on top of money going in – and out – of your accounts. In addition, Fifth Third Bank offers Identity Alert, which gives you access to your credit report, 24-7 credit monitoring and alerts and one-on-one assistance should you become a victim of identity theft. “We encourage you to take advantage of this service that helps protect your identity and financial information,” Eberl says. “Stop by any of our branch locations and our financial professionals can help you learn more about this and other services offered by Fifth Third Bank.”

To learn more about preventing identity theft, contact Fifth Third at (866) 475-4201 or visit 53.com.