You can also put a hold on access to your credit report. This way no one can get credit in your name.
When I did it, it was free. Some states may charge ~$5. They also charge ~$5 to remove the hold. It depends on what state you are in. Don't do it if you plan on opening a charge card or applying for credit in the near future, or you will have to unblock it. You just go to the credit agency reporting website (for ex Experian, Trans Union, etc) and look for the link.