Madison Park

Identity Theft Prevention Suggestions

Tips to be safe

1. The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead
of
first name) and last name put on them. If someone takes your
checkbook, 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. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put "PHOTO
ID REQUIRED".
3. When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card
accounts, DO
NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead,
just
put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest
of
the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it
passes
through all the check processing channels won't have access to it.
4. Never have your SS# printed on your checks.You can add it if it
is necessary. But if you have it printed, anyone can get it.
5. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do
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. Also carry a
photocopy of passport when you travel either here or abroad.


Here's some critical information to limit the damage in
case this happens to you or someone you know:
1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards
immediately.
But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers
handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find
them.
2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your
credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers
you
were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation
But here's what is perhaps most important of all:
3. Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately
to
place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number.
The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your
information was stolen, and they should contact you by phone to
authorize new credit.
1.) Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
2.) Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
3.) Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
4.) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271