We rely on big organizations like credit agencies to keep our personal data secure, but they don't always do a great job. It's wise to build a firewall between your accounts, and between those accounts and your online identities. Some tools and reading to help:

• Use A Passphrase - instead of a password, generate a passphrase you can actually remember that takes centuries to crack.
• Generate a secure username - generate a gibberish username instead of using the same one everywhere.
• The Best Password Managers - programs that can store all your passwords behind a master password, with browser plugins that can auto-fill online forms.
• The Crash Override Resource Center - tons of guidance on how to secure your accounts and devices, and be safer online.
• Data Is a Toxic Asset, So Why Not Throw It Out? - Why do companies hold on to your data for so long? Because it makes them money. Also: laziness.
• Why OPSEC Is for Everyone, Not Just for People with Something to Hide - 3-part article that outlines the security risks of our increasingly-digital lifestyle. A big part of reducing these risks is simply being aware they exist and taking simple precautions.