Information is available from other sources as well. Most state motor vehicle departments sell driver record information to anyone who wishes to purchase it. A few states even sell their entire driver database on CD-ROM, which is very convenient for the identity thief. A new type of company, known as an information broker, can access all sorts of databases to create a file on almost anyone. These services contract with credit bureaus, state motor vehicle departments, check verification services and local county record providers.
Identity thieves are no doubt one of their biggest customers.
The first step is to adopt a policy of providing as little information as possible when seeking a service from a business or government agency. This means protecting your Social Security number. That number can access various records about you. Do not carry a Social Security card with you in your wallet, and if your state is a state that uses the Social Security number as the license number, or displays it on the drivers license, consider getting a new license in a state that does not follow this practice. Consider reducing the number of personal checks you write.