Avoid Identity Theft

From the desk of the Editor.

The next time you order check have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on them. If stolen then the person won't know if you sign your check with your name or initials.

When you are writing checks to pay your credit card account. DO NOT put the complete account number on the 'for' line.

Put your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a P.O. Box use that instead of your home address. Never have your Social Security number printed on your checks.

Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Copy both sides of each license, Credit Card, etc. Keep the copy in a safe place.

If your wallet is ever stolen you should do the following:

  1. Cancel your credit cards immediately. The key is having the toll free number and your card number handy so you know who to call
  2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your things were stolen
  3. Call the three national credit reporting agencies immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and social security number. They are:
    1. Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
    2. Experian: 1-888-397-3742
    3. TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
    4. Social Security Administration (Fraud Line):1-800-269-0271