Steps you can take to protect your identity when shopping during the holidays

1. Do not use debit cards. Why? Because credit-card companies provide better coverage in case of theft, limiting a card holder's liability to $50. Many bank debit cards have no liability limits, and if a thief gets access to an account, he could clean it out before the victim even knows there's a problem.

2. Use just one credit card. This limits the amount of information in circulation. Also, instead of signing the credit card, write "SEE ID" on the back, which Domeniko said will force merchants to ask the user for identification.

3. Keep on eye on your credit card. Don't let it out of your sight, as unscrupulous workers can copy numbers or skim information into a second machine. Make sure clerks return your card before you leave the checkout.

4. Travel light. Remove anything from your wallet that you don't need and never carry your Social Security card. Leave your checkbook at home if you're not going to use it.

5. Keep your receipts. Not only do they help if returns are necessary, but receipts contain information that can be helpful to thieves. Never leave receipts visible in cars or exposed elsewhere.

6. Be savvy online. Check for the seals from VeriSign, the Better Business Bureau or other groups that authenticate Web sites, and click on them. Legitimate sites will have links to certifications, whereas no links could mean the symbols were simply copied to the site.

Source: Associated Press