May 2006 (Medialink) - You may have already bought a new car, plasma television or some other pricey item and not even know it. How? You could be a victim of identity theft. Experts offer advice on how to prevent this from happening to you.

Thieves can steal Social Security numbers, credit card data and other personal information through a variety of ways - including bank statements, Internet hacking and even listening to your cell phone conversations. Experts advise to limit giving personal information over a cell phone, ignore unsolicited emails and shred financial records before throwing them out.

Also, check your credit report at least once a year and review it for anything unusual. Ask your insurance company if they offer identity theft insurance - which can pay for your legal bills and help restore your identity if you are ever victimized.