Identity Theft Prevention
SHOPPING AND
CREDIT CARDS
Credit card usage has increased for everyday items, so please be extra careful during all times of the year by observing the following safety tips:
-Always make sure that you get your credit card back after handing to someone for payment of an item(s).
-Watch the handling of your credit cards during transactions.
-Keep track of all receipts and void incorrect receipts.
-Never sign a blank receipt.
-Open bills promptly and compare receipts with billing statements.
-Report questionable charges immediately.
-Notify card companies in advance of a change in address.
-Cancel unused credit card accounts.
-Contact creditors about accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.
-If you are a victim of identity theft, alert telephone (and cell), electrical, gas and water utilities that someone may try to set up an account using your information.
If you are a victim or as a precaution regarding identity theft, please contact the fraud department of each of the three major credit bureaus.
-Equifax: To report fraud: 1-800-525-6285
To order your credit report: 1-800-685-1111
-Experian: To report fraud: 1-888-EXPERIAN
To order your credit report: 1-888-EXPERIAN
-Trans Union: To report fraud: 1-800-680-7289
To order your credit report: 1-800-916-8800
You can obtain a free credit report once per year at www.AnnualCreditReport.com.