With the latest rash of purse snatchings in the heartland and holiday shopping season rapidly approaching, what can women do to protect their cash and themselves?

For starters, a credit advisor we spoke with says it may be time to clean your purse. Lisa Cameron of Credit Advisors says you could lose more than just cash, you could also become a victim of identity theft.

So when out shopping, the best advice is to carry only what you need. Leave behind credit cards or your checkbook if you don't plan on using them.

"That's one thing a lot of people do, but don't carry your social security card with you, don't carry your checkbook if you're not going to use it," said Cameron. "Think about everything you put into your bag, into your wallet. If somebody else gets a hold of it, what are you going to do?"

Cameron also says take the time to write down all the 800 numbers on the back of your credit cards. That way you're not scrambling to find those numbers to cancel your card.