First Contractors

How do I prevent independent contractors from stealing my customers in California?
I have a small IT business in California and I have to hire independent contractors from time to time. Recently, one of the people who hired me to work I went to my client and told them to do the same work I do for them except that it would be cheaper. I heard that non-compete agreements are illegal in California, so how am I supposed to protect my business?
Load less than independent contractors.
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