• The next time you order checks, omit your first name and have only your initials and last name printed 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.
  • When you are writing checks to pay for your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the “for” line, but only the last 4 digits.  The credit card company knows the rest of the number and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the payment processing channels won’t have access to it.
  • Put your work phone number on your check instead of your home phone.  If you have a P.O. box, use that address instead of your home address.
  • NEVER put your social security number on your checks.  You can add it if it’s totally necessary, but if you have it printed, anyone can get it.
  • Photocopy both sides of all of the contents of your wallet–credit cards and ID cards, etc. You will remember what you had in your wallet, and have all the account numbers and contact numbers to call and cancel them or order replacements. Keep the photocopies in a safe place.  Also carry a copy of your passport when you travel at home or abroad.

What to do if your purse or wallet is stolen:

  • We have been told that we should cancel our credit cards immediately.  The key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to contact. Keep that information in a safe place.
  • Immediately file a police report in the jurisdiction where the theft occured. This proves to credit providers that you were diligent and is the first step toward an investigation (if there is one).
  • Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number.  Thieves can make a credit application over the internet just like you can. The alert means that any company checking your credit knows that your information was stolen and they must contact you by phone to authorize new credit.  There will be records of all the credit checks initated by the thieves purchases.

Important numbers:

  • Equifax: 1 800 525 6285
  • Experian: 1 888 397 3742
  • Trans Union: 1 800 680 7289
  • Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1 800 269 0271