The chance that someone will assume your identity to open fraudulent bank or credit accounts is increasing as thieves become more sophisticated. The best way to protect yourself is to try to prevent this from happening in the first place. Here are some ideas:

• Make a list of all of your credit cards, even those you don't carry in your wallet. Include account numbers and the names and emergency phone numbers of each issuer. Store this in a secure place that's quickly accessible to you. Don't keep it in your wallet!
• If possible, don't let your credit card out of your sight when you use it to pay for a store or restaurant purchase.
• Don't carry your birth certificate or Social Security card in your wallet.
• Install a locked mailbox to prevent mail theft. Call your credit card company or bank immediately if your statement doesn't show up on time.
• When dining out, keep your purse or wallet secure. Leaving it on the table when you go to the salad bar is a no-no.
• Use drive-through ATMs if possible. If you can't, use ATMs inside stores or in well-lit, well-trafficked areas. Never let anyone see you type in your personal identification number, and don't write it on your ATM card.
• Shred preapproved credit card or loan applications, and those checks your credit card company mails you, before you throw them in the trash.
• Check your bank statements as soon as you receive them, and order a copy of your credit report at least once a year. Check it over for signs of fraudulent activity.
• If you live in a state that uses Social Security numbers on your driver's license, ask for a randomly assigned number.
• Don't give out your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number to anyone who calls you. Give them out only when you have initiated the call.
• If you are concerned about a potential scam, call the local police.

If your wallet or personal identification is stolen, don't wait. Minimize potential damage by calling the police and other parties such as your credit card companies, your bank, and the three major credit bureaus (Experian (888) 397-3742, Equifax (800) 685-1111, and Trans Union (800) 888-4213).

Note: The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACTA) provides consumers with a new arsenal of weapons to fight against fraud and identity theft, although they will not be effective until December 1, 2004. Under FACTA, among other things, you will be able to:

• Ask the credit bureaus to truncate your Social Security number on any disclosures they send to you, including your credit report
• Block fraudulent information from appearing on your credit report
• Place a fraud alert on your credit report to alert creditors that your financial information is or may be compromised