Whether through shopping, checking in on social media, or just reading up on favorite topics, many Americans spend hours upon hours online every year. It should come as no surprise, then, that online identity theft is now a common problem among internet users. In fact, nine million Americans fall prey to internet identity theft every year. Protect yourself by following these helpful tips.

1. Check (and double check) your bank and credit card statements.
Keep an eye out for strange purchases, like ones made out of state or via online retailers you don't frequent. Report suspicious activity right away. Also, be sure to order your credit report annually to double check that no fishy accounts or credit cards have been opened in your name. You're entitled to a free copy of your credit report once per year from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

2. Create strong passwords.
Use a combination of hard-to-guess letters, numbers, and characters in your online passwords. Be sure to change passwords frequently, and be especially careful when entering them into a public computer. Don't share your passwords, social security number, or credit card information over email or instant messenger — even with your family members. You never know when your email could be breached.

3. Install anti-virus software.
Keep your computer up-to-date with software packages that detect viruses and spyware. Also, when you log into your bank or credit card accounts, make an online purchase, or engage in any activity that requires security, double check that the web address bar begins with https. This signifies a secure website connection.

8 Tips on How to Protect Yourself Online [McAfee]
How to Protect Yourself Online [FCC]
10 Ways to Protect Yourself Online [Reader's Digest]
How to Protect Yourself Online [U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]
Identity Theft & Credit Card Fraud – How to Protect Yourself [Wall Street Journal]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Eric Norris