Bulletin

Protect Yourself From Identity Theft.

We’ve all heard the horror stories about how easily financial ruin can occur as a result of having your name, address, Social Security number, or credit cards stolen. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help minimize the threat of identity theft.

For example, make copies of both sides of all the contents of your wallet, including calling cards, credit cards, licenses, and Social Security card. You might also want to consider making copies of your passport. Then, in the event that your wallet is stolen, you’ll know specifically what was taken, who should be notified, as well as the phone numbers to call to have accounts cancelled. Remember to keep the copies in a safe place to which you have quick and easy access.

The following are a few tips to keep in mind that can greatly decrease your risk of being a victim of identity theft.

When ordering new checks:

• Include only your initials and last name on the checks. Then, someone who steals your checkbook will not know what the initials stand for, and therefore will not know how to sign the checks correctly.
• If you have a P.O. Box, use it instead of your actual street address so no one gets access to your home address. If you don’t have a P.O. Box, consider using your work address.
• Never include your home phone number on your checks. If a number is requested, you are much safer using your work number.

When writing checks:

• Add your Social Security number to your check when making purchases rather than including it on the purchase form.
• Never write your entire credit card number on the memo line. Instead, include just the last 4 digits. Your credit card company knows the rest of the numbers.

If your wallet or some of its contents are stolen:

• Call your credit card company immediately and have that particular card cancelled.
• File a police report in the jurisdiction in which your property was stolen. This will help provide proof of immediate action to your credit card providers.
• Call the three national credit-reporting organizations as well as the Social Security Administration so that a fraud alert can be placed on your name and Social Security number. By doing so, any company that checks your credit will know to contact you by phone before approving any credit transactions. The numbers to call are:
  • Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
  • Experian: 1-888-397-3742
  • Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
  • Social Security Administration: 1-800-269-0271

REMEMBER TO PROTECT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE!

More Bulletins »