Identity fraud: Can your credit report keep you safe?

Have you ever gotten one of those letters from your employer, creditor, municipality or school that includes the words "your data has been compromised?" It's usually followed – I know from experience – by a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. New data from Javelin Strategies shows that's one of those gut instincts you'd do well to listen to.

No surprise that 2009 – plagued by a tough financial scenario all around – showed a pretty sharp uptick in identity fraud. According to the study, you had a one in 20 chance of being a victim, an 11% increase from a year ago.