An effective identity theft solution can’t only be the work of a single entity. You can take all the necessary steps to prevent identity theft, for example, but if your bank does not set up a proactive identity theft solution, then all the steps you took may be all for naught.

For the solution to identity theft to be successful, it should be the result of the collaboration among the consumer, industry, and the government:

For the Consumers

There are several ways that you can protect yourself from identity theft, you should take the necessary steps to prevent identity theft and it all boils down to two very important things, one is your computer habits, and second is the way you convey and receive personal data.

Protect your computer habits
-    Make use of passwords to protect your personal information
-    Visit only secure websites
-    Keep your anti-virus software updated and run periodic scans

Transmittal and reception of personal data
-    Make sure your firewall is set up to regulate data coming in and out of your hard drive
-    Make sure that your monthly banks statements and credit card billing comes to you securely. Having a locked mail box is one of them.
-    Avoid having to give out your SSN or driver’s license by offering to provide an alternate identification.

For The Industry

You can ensure that the industry does it part in protecting your identity, you must ensure that they have taken steps to prevent identity theft from happening in their establishment. As a consumer you have the right to demand a satisfactory service from them and you have the right to take your business elsewhere if they fail to meet your standards and you also have the ability to let others know of their dissatisfactory service.

The Government

Congress is in the process of crafting more stringent federal laws that penalize database managers who have second-rate security. Laws are also in place that allows you to have greater control of identity theft targets like your credit, for instance. Half the states have set us Credit Alert laws so you can prevent new credit cards from being opened under your name.

The observance of stricter identity theft solution probably set e-government in America a few years back compared to countries, but considering the dangers of the alternative, not many people are argumentative.

The consumer, the industry, and the government should work hand in hand in order to prevent identity theft. This will also ensure that steps to prevent identity theft taken by each entity will be successful, and that the problems it can bring will be brought to a minimal.