"When identity theft does happen to someone, the first thing the member thinks is that the financial institution is at fault," according to John DeMita of Open Solutions. What many people do not realize is that malicious programs such as key loggers can compromise your account. A key logger Trojan is a form of malware that users unwittingly download from the Internet. The key logger records your keystrokes, which include the usernames and passwords that you use to access your online accounts and sends this information back to the hacker.

We cannot stress how important it is for Internet users to keep their computers up to date. This includes:

• Firewall's: Every computer should have some type of firewall installed. Firewall's prevent hackers from exploiting the resources on your computer without your knowledge.
• Anti virus & AntiSpyware: Anti virus software prevents viruses such as Trojan's, and worm's from being installed on your computer. Virus definitions should be updated regularly.
• Operating System and Application Patches: Vendors release patches for their operating systems and applications when they become aware of vulnerabilities. These patches help prevent hackers from exploiting your computer. Good computer practices include applying these patches as they become available.
• Passwords: Rotate your passwords often. Changing your password regularly will help to prevent unauthorized access to your online accounts

We also stress the importance of shredding documents that contain sensitive account information before you dispose of them!