Identity Theft

Preventing Identity Theft / Credit Card Fraud      

Dos

  • Sign your cards as soon as they arrive
  • Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a secure place
  • Keep an eye on your card during the transaction and get it back as soon as possibleIdentity theft
  • Void incorrect receipts
  • Destroy carbons
  • Save receipts to compare with billing statements
  • Open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your checking account
  • Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer
  • Notify card companies in advance of a change of address

Don'ts

  • Lend your card to anyone
  • Leave cards or receipts lying around
  • Sign a blank receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through any blank spaces above the total.
  • Write your account number on a postcard or the outside of an envelope
  • Give out your account number over the phone unless you're making the call to a company you know is reputable. If you have questions about the company, check it out with your local consumer protection office or the Better Business Bureau