The latest Internet Security Threat Report shows that the value of stolen info has declined as the crime of ID theft spikes. Who knew that supply and demand even drove prices in the criminal underworld?!

A stolen credit card number now nets a measly 40 cents! That sum used to be at least several dollars higher. Your bank account number now goes for about $10. And get this -- your entire identity (credit card number, Social Security number, name, address and date of birth) now goes for just $2! Stolen info is that prevalent; in just the first 90 days of 2008, more than 8 million people had their data breached.

Business owners face an added burden when it comes to certain kinds of ID theft. Under the Uniform Commercial Code, they may be held partly or totally responsible if their own credit card or business checking account number is used for phony charges. Consumers would be protected under the same circumstances, but not so with businesses. So it's imperative to keep your check book locked up at the office if you're a business owner.

For consumers, be sure to monitor your credit card statements closely. You have 60 days to dispute any fraudulent charges. And consider freezing your credit. It's the best preventative medicine you can take.