To stop someone from opening a checking account in your name you can do so by placing a credit freeze on your credit report with each of the major credit bureaus.
Placing a freeze on your credit report will prevent and restrict anyone from accessing your credit information so they'll be unable to open any new accounts.
You can also place a security freeze with ChexSystems.
ChexSystems is a system that banks use to verify a persons identity when opening checking accounts.
If you suspect identity theft you should also file a police report and contact your bank's fraud department immediately if you discover a fraudulent account.
Because banks and financial institutions check your ChexSystems report if you apply for new checking or savings accounts, a freeze prevents someone from opening accounts in your name.
If you do believe someone has opened a checking or other bank account in your name, contact the bank or credit union, report the fraudulent activity and consider placing a credit freeze to prevent additional damage to your identity.
If anyone, including a spouse, family member, or intimate partner, uses your personal information to open up an account in your name without your permission, this could be considered identify theft.