1. Your Social Security number is often the key to identity theft. Never carry your Social Security number in your wallet or checkbook and do not have it printed on your checks.

2. Guard your Social Security number closely. Do not give it out to anyone unless you are convinced it is necessary for them to have it and ask if a business will accept another means of identification.

3. Be careful when you dispose of documents that contain sensitive information, such as credit card receipts. Use a shredder if possible.

4. Don't post personal information to the Internet. You can use Internet areas such as genealogical sites or high school reunion sites without revealing too many details.

5. Check your credit report at least once each year and correct any errors in writing.

6. Review all bank statements and credit card statements carefully so you can discover quickly whether someone else is using your bank account or credit cards.

If you should discover that someone is using your identity, report it immediately to credit agencies and to the police.For more detailed information on this subject please visit www.consumer.gov/idtheft.


DISCLAIMER
This information has been prepared only for general purposes and is not
legal advice. Presentation of this information is not intended to create an
attorney client relationship. Do not act upon this information without
seeking professional counsel.