Nine tips for consumers shopping for identity theft protection

National Protect Your Identity Week is underway and numerous companies have wasted no time in letting consumers know that they offer the best service to combat fraud and theft.

But the Consumer Federation of America warns that many of these companies make false promises and exaggerated or misleading claims.

"Identity theft services may be able to help resolve your identity theft problems, but no service can absolutely prevent your personal information from being stolen," Susan Grant, the organization's director of consumer protection, said in a statement. "It's important for consumers to know what to steer clear of when purchasing identity theft services."