“Identity theft isn’t a joke. Millions of people suffer from it each year.”

While that Dwight Schrute line was played for laughs on “The Office,” identity theft is a real risk.

“When it comes to personal information, you are the currency,” said Cindy Jones, director of security risk management at UAB. “Protect your information like you would protect your money.”

In 2020 the FTC reported 4.8 million cases of identity theft. Majority of those affected were between the ages 30 to 39 and are mostly married women. Identity Theft Resource Center reports that 29 percent of victims are repeat victims.

Here are some ways to keep your identity and credit safe.

• Update your passwords: Some hackers obtain information from data breaches that have occurred within the past few years. Always keep your passwords up to date and lacking personal information.
• Be wary of callers: Unsolicited callers are getting a little too good at impersonating the IRS these days. Never give your information over the phone. If you believe the message is legitimate visit the website of the agency and contact them through their portal.
• Phish-y emails: Have you received an email from Amazon in your personal folder recently? Is it saying, “Congratulations you’ve won a gift card!” in big bold letters? Don’t click that link. If you receive anything that seems too good to be true check to see who sent it, who else received it. If you did click it and it asks for personal information exit the site.
• Dispose of personal information: Don’t throw your bills or bank statements in the trash. They have sensitive information on there that no one else should see. Shred or burn them instead of tossing them in the garbage.