* Limit the data lists you are on. Notify each of the three credit reporting companies (Equifax, [800] 556-4711; Experian, formerly TRW, [800] 353-0809; and Trans Union, [800] 680-7293) that you don’t want your name sold to other marketers.

This "op out" notification will cut down partially, but not completely, on the mail you get offering new credit applications.

* On a regular basis, order your credit report by mail from these reporting companies to monitor for changed addresses and fraudulent information.

* When creating a computer password, don’t use common identifiers, such as your birthday or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

* Don’t have your driver’s license number printed on your personal checks (some banks offer to do this).

* Pay attention to your monthly billing statements. "Bank and credit card statements are important protective tools to catch fraud," says Golinger. "Look for anything that seems odd and question it right away. You need to be on top of your accounts more than ever."

If you are a victim of identity theft, said Golinger, move swiftly:

* Call the fraud units of the three credit reporting companies listed above and ask that your account be flagged so that you will be notified of any credit applications.

* For each instance that your credit has been violated, contact the appropriate credit card company, then the place where the card was used. Ask that accounts be closed with the notation "at the consumer’s request."

* Contact both the local police and the sheriff, make a report and get a copy of it. "It’s the law," says Golinger. "They have to take the report."

* Do not pay any bill or portion of a bill which is a result of identity theft.

"To extricate yourself," Golinger says, "you’ve got to be a savvy consumer." And "you must be assertive with the credit card, banking and credit reporting industries as well as everyone else you contact."