According to BankRate.com, there are several common mistakes that consumers may make that leave them vulnerable to identity theft. If you are a credit card carrier, be sure to avoid these habits to prevent your personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

Avoid carrying your social security card in your wallet or purse, as this is a vital piece of identity that others could use to steal your personal information. Furthermore, it's a bad idea to write your social security number on a piece of paper, as this could easily be found by a credit card thief if you drop your card.

Though it may seem like you are alone when talking on your cellphone, remember that everyone around you can hear the conversation. Never give out any sensitive data on the phone, even if you are talking to a friend or family member.

Those who frequently shop online. should be sure to guard their personal information by using a secure payment company, as there are over 9 million cases of identity theft in the U.S. every year, according to the Federal Trade Commission.