How to Stay Safe and Avoid Fraud
We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed on us in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards, etc. Unfortunately, I, have first hand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week, the thieves ordered an expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer, received a PIN number from DMV to change my driving record information online, and more.
But here's some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know:
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Photocopy your wallet contentsPlace the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Copy both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. I also carry a photocopy of my passport when I travel either here or abroad. (Note: If you have a scanner on your computer, you can scan your wallet's contents instead of using a copier.) Cancel Your Credit Cards Cancel your credit cards immediately if they are stolen. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Most credit cards have the numbers printed on the back. Keep those where you can find them easily. Contact the Police File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one). Contact Credit Reporting Agencies But here's what is perhaps most important: Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done. There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away this weekend (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them in their tracks. The numbers are: ���Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 ���Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 ���Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 ���Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271 |
And for another tip, the next time you order checks:
| 1) |
Include only your initials (instead of first
name) and last name on the checks. If someone
takes your check book they will not know if you
sign your checks with just your initials or your
first name, but your bank will know how you sign
your checks. |
| 2) |
Put your work phone number on your checks instead
of your home phone. |
| 3) |
If you have a PO Box, use that instead of your
home adress. If you do not have a PO Box use your
work address. |
| 4) |
Never have your Social Security number printed on your checks --
you can add it if it is necessary. But if you
have it printed, anyone can get it. |
We pass along jokes; we pass along just about everything. Do think about passing this information along. It could really help someone you care about.