Credit Card Administration
Credit Card and Check Theft Tips
1. When you have checks printed, always use your initials and last name. This way, if anyone attempts to use your account without your authorization, it will be unclear as to how you actually sign your name, with the initials or the full name. The bank records will show your actual signature. .
2. It is prudent not to sign the back of your credit/debit cards but rather to print “SEE PHOTO ID” and be prepared to show that ID whenever you use your card(s). .
3. To further protect your personal information, use only the last four digits of your bank account number on the checks you write to pay for credit card purchases. In this way, your full account number will not be seen as it is processed through the credit card company’s system. The company’s computer already has your full number.
4. Your SS # should never appear on your checks as it is a gateway to your personal information. If possible, use your work phone number and address on your checks.
5. Make photocopies of all your credit/debit cards, driver’s licenses, health cards and passport. This will make it easier to get them replaced quickly should they be lost or stolen.
6. Most hotels are now equipped with cards as room door keys. When you check out of a hotel, take the card(s) and destroy them as they contain all of your personal information that you gave to the hotel when you checked in, including credit card numbers. Anyone with a card reader can access this important information with no problem whatsoever.
If you are a victim of credit fraud, here are some things you can do to help minimize the potential risks:
1. Immediately cancel your credit/debit cards. Since you have already taken photocopies as mentioned above, have the toll free numbers handy for such emergencies.
2. An investigation into possible fraud begins with a report to your local police station. Do so as soon as possible for the obvious reasons but also so that your creditors will see that you truly are a victim seeking to remedy the situation within legal parameters
3. Place a fraud alert on your name and social security number so that any applications for new credit will be flagged and you will be telephoned to verify the information.
Some of the telephone numbers you will need are listed here for your convenience:
1.) Social Security Administration (fraud line):1-800-269-0271
2.) Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
3.) Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
4.) Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
