Identity theft has become a popular and fast-growing form of financial fraud. Millions of dollars are lost each year when confidential financial information, such as Social Security numbers and credit-card accounts, is compromised.

Several Web sites offer advice on that very subject. Here are some good sites worth a visit:

• American Bankers Assn.

www.aba.com/Consumer+Connection/CNC–contips–idtheft.htm

It lists steps and action to take if you become a victim.

• Federal Trade Commission

www.consumer.gov/idtheft

It is the central U.S. government’s site for all matters related to identity theft.

• How Stuff Works

www.howstuffworks.com/identity-theft4.htm

The site offers information on how identity theft occurs and how to guard against it.

• Identity Theft Resource Center

www.idtheftcenter.org/html/prevention–tips.htm

It features a test for identity theft risk factors with tips for businesses and consumers.