Chances are you will never be victimized by account hijacking identity theft. But if you are victimized, early detection is critical.

• Check your statements regularly. If something seems irregular, contact your banker to discuss it. An encouraging note: a recent study showed that customers who monitor their accounts online discover any problems sooner.

• Check your credit report at least annually. You are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus. If a hijacker is misusing your credit, clues are likely to show up here. For a free report: www.annualcreditreport.com

Your bank is taking substantive measures to protect the safety and security of your accounts against account hijacking and other forms of identity theft. By acting today to strengthen security at your end of the Internet highway, hijackers will have an even tougher time. Stop by your bank soon to learn more.