(BPT) - As Americans, we are privileged to enjoy the many freedoms to live our lives the way we want, as long as we are willing to put in the work. Therefore it’s only right that we have the pleasure to enjoy the rewards. It’s the American dream. Unfortunately, for everything that you earn, there could be someone who wants to take that away from you.

Identity thieves can strike at any stage of your life. However, the more you know, the better prepared you can be to take proactive steps to reduce your risk. For every milestone from graduation to marriage, from buying a new home to joining the military, or even becoming a new parent, identity theft poses a risk. Here’s how people at different life stages could be targeted for identity theft.

To the graduate: Up until now you probably haven’t thought to worry about your credit and have only used your Social Security number when filling out forms at your doctor’s office or on various applications. Even more likely, you’ve left the responsibility of all of this to your parents. But as you’re headed off into the world for the first time and signing up for your first credit card, there is a chance that a thief could be out to steal your good name, be careful who you give your information to.