Checking account fraud continues to pose a problem for consumers and anyone with a personal checking account runs the risk of money loss, or even worse, identity theft.

Automatic payment systems, Internet banking and direct deposit plans have made checking account fraud more common. People have swapped paper checks for convenient online forms, but that’s made room for a slew of new scammers. Although banks are meant to compensate clients for fraudulent withdrawals, some escape paying back fraud victims by claiming that the correct checking account number shows charges are valid. Lawmakers are drafting legislation that will place the financial onus on banks, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

You can prevent your checking account number from being stolen. Here’s how:

Say no to scams. Don’t give your checking information to telemarketers and don’t respond to any e-mails that come from banks, eBay or PayPal asking for your bank account information.

Become a tech-savvy banker. Make sure your computer is protected with firewalls, anti-virus programs and anti-spyware programs to prevent thieves from accessing your information. Don’t save your account numbers on your computer and don’t link any websites (like PayPal) to your checking account. Avoid using banking sites or making online purchases on public computers or shared wifi networks.

Bury your paper trail. Keep all financial documents in a locked place and don’t leave your checkbook unattended. Don’t keep your ATM pin code in your wallet and be sure to shred any canceled checks and ATM receipts to disable the most determined dumpster divers. Also, don’t leave bills containing checks in your mailbox overnight! It just takes one drive-by for your checking account information to fall into the wrong hands.

Monitor your money. Tricky hackers withdraw small amounts of money (sometimes only $60 at a time) that can easily be attributed to a spouse or child or deemed a forgotten-about purchase. Study your bank statement and ask questions if you find inconsistencies.

Craft a better check. Use a ballpoint or gel pen to write checks because scammers can remove marker or felt-tip ink. Fill in any blank spaces with lines and minimize the amount of information on the check, leaving off driver’s license or social security numbers. You can also invest in anti-altering checks that utilize laser technology—but if you order new checks, verify that all of the books have arrived intact.

Consider paying for protection. Programs like PrivacyGuard, LifeLock and Debix secure your information and help you keep tabs on your accounts.