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Security Against Fraud I thought I would share some good advice pertaining
to credit card theft and identity fraud. Many have heard and seen
some of this before, but the information is timely and will help,
if you are ever put in a situation described below. The next time you order checks have only your initials
(instead of first name) and last name put on them. 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. Put your work phone # on your checks instead of your
home phone. If you have a PO Box use that instead of your home address,
if you do not have a PO Box use your work address. 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. Place the contents of your wallet on a scanner or
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. We have been told we should cancel your 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 easily. 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). But here's what is perhaps
most important:
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