Home > Money & Business > Personal Finance > Financial Security > Financial Security in Tough Times Some helpful tips from the experts to help you get through the recession. Identity Theft Prevention Information for Seniors According to the FTC, there were more than 8 million identity theft victims in 2006 and 2007. There is a global black market for stolen identities. Your Social Security number is the key to credit and banking accounts and the main target of criminals. How do you protect yourself? Family Economist Says to Appreciate Economic Value of Education (Distributed 7/11/03) Education is valuable throughout your life, and the achievements you make today can determine the salaries you earn over a lifetime. Strategies for Successful Retirement How much money will you need to retire comfortably? The answer depends on your lifestyle expectations and goals. Other factors to consider include the age at which you plan to retire, your life expectancy, the amount and type of employer benefits (if any) and the amount and growth rate of your savings and investments.