While fraudsters watched your PIN last night!

It is frequently said that it is better to give than it is to receive. But, unless you are careful, you could be giving fraudsters a lot more than you bargained for.

It is not just the new games console, plasma screen TV or mobile phone that criminals want: personal documentation, bank statements, dates of birth and address details head the fraudsters' wish lists at this time of year.

Richard Hurley, Communications Manager at CIFAS - the UK's Fraud Prevention Service - comments: "The safety tips used throughout the year to protect our identities are even more crucial during the festive period. The extremes of Christmas jollity and stress make us even more vulnerable when making last minute purchases on the high street, shopping online, celebrating or just in our day to day lives.

CIFAS advises the following seasonal precautions:

When out shopping or celebrating, keep all your personal information secure (shield your PIN number from people queuing behind you, don't carry your personal documents, PIN or passwords with you etc).

During the party season, take particular care of your handbag or wallet. Don't give thieves a chance. And be careful with your credit and debit cards. Don't let them out of your sight.

When buying online - keep your passwords secure at all times, avoid using public wi-fi zones or shared computers when searching for last minute presents, ensure that you have up-to-date security software, only use sites that provide secure payments and be sure you know who you are dealing with (getsafeonline.org).

There will be more transactions than usual at this time of year, so be sure to examine your bank statement carefully, to check that any fraudulent transactions are not overlooked.

Shred documents when you dispose of them, including Christmas cards, envelopes, credit and debit card receipts, bank statements and anything bearing your name, address and/or signature.

Check your credit reference agency file regularly for unfamiliar items and take prompt action if you spot anything strange.

If anyone in your family, especially teenagers or children, use social networking sites (eg Friends Reunited, Bebo, MySpace or Facebook) make sure they don't inadvertently give away personal information (or, for example, details of expensive gifts or holidays that could be useful to burglars).

Don't forget to keep your home secure, and keep your personal documents locked away. Theft or loss of documents such as your driving licence or passport should be notified immediately to the authorities.

CIFAS Protective Registration. Use this service if you have personal documents stolen. (Contact the service on 0870 010 2091). There is a charge of £14.10.

Don't give your personal details to callers, charity collectors or "researchers" in the street. Check whether they are truly who they claim to be before giving them any information. Be just as careful when taking telephone calls. Fraudsters may try to dupe you into believing they are from banks or other companies. If you give them your account and security details they could run up huge debts in your name.

Following those simple guidelines will ensure that you have a happier New Year than the fraudsters!