Watch your credit card

[filburt1]

My consumer tip of the moment: watch your credit card carefully. I got a call this morning on my cell phone from 727-541-0001. I didn't pick it up, merely because it was 11:30 AM, which of course means I still had half an hour until noon to sleep. Sometimes I get numbers I don't recognize calling me, mainly local ones that are wrong numbers, occasionally companies like Circuit City in regards to previous calls I've made and Microsoft for awesome but undisclosed reasons.

As I usually do, I Googled numbers I don't recognize, usually calling from my local area code. This one only turned up a few hits, but man: http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/08/26/153054.php . When they called back a few hours later, I figured, what the hell, let's see, and answered. They said hello, I'm from Visa (an impossibility because my credit card issuer would call, not Visa itself, and only my landline is associated with the card, not my cell phone). He asked me to confirm my full name and the last four digits of my credit card number which were...correct. I refused to confirm nor deny, just saying the answer depends on what you're calling about. He refused to answer. I told him to shut up (well, "be quiet") and he became abusive (so was I, but he said "hey listen, don't tell me to be quiet"). I told him this is a personal line, a cell phone, and if he calls again, the FCC will hear about it. It was so satisfying to flip the phone closed on him.


No more calls yet, but I'm expecting them. Verizon says they can't block numbers (only text messages) and it depends on the phone if you can block a specific number (mine can't). But, after further research, people were reporting right after they received the calls unauthorized charges on their credit cards. Not wanting to take the chance, I immediately reported the card as stolen. I didn't see any unauthorized charges, but I had a brush with identity theft before which, ironically, would have happened if I wasn't so desperately poor.

They apparently call people only on cell phones, and the theory is that it's international because Florida (727 area code) cannot stop the calls. The other theory is that they're dumpster divers getting your name and last four digits of the credit card from receipts and other stuff you've thrown out?obviously practically every receipt has this.

So here's what I suggest doing if you get a call from this number:

• Don't answer at all, even out of curiousity, because you know these details.
• Report your card as stolen, regardless of whether the activity on it seems normal
• Call your cell phone provider and ask them to block the number or the whole area code; if they can't, see if your phone can do it.
• Shred your receipts, even if all it has is the last four digits.

Ironically, it might turn out for good. If I get more calls, Verizon can't block them, and my phone can't block them, then that means I can get a new phone. I've been wanting a camera phone for a while, not for sending pictures, but just to have a crappy digital camera with me at all times. Problem is my two-year contract ends in the summer so I might be stuck with the full or one-year-contract price, unless I can piss off enough employees of the Verizon Wireless store.

Damn scammers.

[Brad]

Nice story, good tips. Begin paranoid I burn all my paper trash with important information on it that I can afford to throw out. This works out best for me because I can avoid spending money on a shreder, and get to play with fire at the same time.

[filburt1]

I'd burn all my stuff too, but primarily because it would be fun, second to preventing identity theft. But I'm sure it's a ticketable environmental regulation.

[Brad]

I'm not sure on that, but I bet it is. We live out in the boonies so I guess thats why no one ever reported us. Then again it's common around here for people to burn their trash.

O well..

[KW802]

I don't burn (local burning laws prevent it) but everything goes into the giant shredder in the home office; a decent shredder for the home is a relatively cheap investment safeguard.

[AN-net]

technically they could piece back shredded papers but burning it is ultimate, i have a fireplace

[KW802]

Originally Posted by AN-net

technically they could piece back shredded papers but burning it is ultimate, i have a fireplace

If somebody wants to piece back the confetti that comes out of my cross-shredder, I'll hand them the bags!

[Erwin]

I have a shredder sitting next to me right now for things like this.

[southernlady]

Protecting Yourself from ID Thief

ID thief is on the rise and even if you don't use your cc's much you should be checking your statements monthly. If you aren't getting them monthly, call your cc company to make sure there hasn't been an address change made behind your back. Liz

Protecting Yourself from ID Thief

Password Protection
? Never share your passwords or PINs with anyone.
? Never write your passwords down where they could be easily found by others.
? When creating passwords, don't use information that could be easily linked to you (like your birth date, phone number, or the names of pets or hobbies).
? Change your password often.
? If you decide to revoke any access to an aggregation service that you have shared your password with, we recommend changing your password.
Online Banking
? Never leave your computer unattended while using any online banking or investing service.
? Always logoff completely when you are finished with your secure session.
? If you are providing financial information, be sure the site is secure. Look for the "closed padlock" in the lower right hand corner of your browser.
? Do business with financial institutions that you know and trust.
? Watch out for copycat sites that may try to look like a financial institution. Be sure you are using the correct Web address for your bank.
? If you're considering an "online bank" verify the bank is legitimate and that deposits are insured by the FDIC.
? Only access your personal financial information from a computer you "trust". Internet kiosks and cyber cafe's may not be as secure as your personal computer.
Shopping Online
? When placing orders online, check for the "closed padlock" that is usually located in the lower left-hand corner of your browser. This means that your information will be encrypted.
? Consider registering your credit card* or Visa check card* with "Verified by Visa" ? a new online service created to prevent online credit card fraud. When your card is registered, and the online merchant you are using participates in the program, a PIN you designate is required to complete the transaction process.
? Shop with online merchants that you know and trust.
Browsing the Internet
? Before entering any personal or financial information on any Web site, we strongly suggest you review the security and privacy policies listed on that site.
? Keep your browser updated. Newer versions have the latest safety features. It's also important to know which browsers are recommended by the sites you are viewing.

Email
? Email is not generally considered secure.
? Never enter personal financial information such as account numbers or your SSN in an email.
? Use secure messaging when it's available. Most online banking applications have a secure messaging feature, such as an online form.
? Be wary of opening suspicious emails or their attachments ? especially from someone you don't know.
Viruses can be passed along, even without the sender's knowledge.
? Beware of email scams. If an email describes a virus that is circulating, be sure to verify it with the Web site of one of the virus software manufacturers.

Protecting Your Children
? Know what your children are doing online.
? Be open with your children about things that concern you about the Internet (chatting with strangers, pornography, etc.) and let them know what they should do if they encounter these things.
? Consider using an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that provides controls to block sites that are not appropriate for children.
? Install software that allows you to set up barriers to control access to sites and prevent the entry of private information.
? Visit the Federal Trade Commission's Web site Kidz Privacy*
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/kidzprivacy/ to
learn more about how your children can be protected when using the Internet.

What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and poses as you. They may open credit card accounts, apply for loans, rent apartments and establish cell phone service ? all in your name.
In many instances, they request address changes for you, so you never see the bills for their activity. These impersonators spend as much money as possible ? in a very short time. Most people never know this is happening until they apply for a loan or receive a call from a collection agency. Clearing up the effects of identity theft can be a nightmare, and it takes time. You can spend months or even years re-establishing your creditworthiness.

How is personal financial information stolen?
? Over the phone ? by someone posing as your employer, bank or other service provider to confirm or update your information
? From your mailbox ? stealing items in your mailbox (incoming and outgoing) such as credit card offers, account statements; bill payments
? Your garbage can ? discarded bank statements, credit card offers, cancelled checks
? Internet sites ? entering personal information on a site that is not secure
? Where you shop ? a clerk may copy personal information written on a check
? Post Office ? someone may initiate a change of address on your behalf.

How can I help prevent identity theft?
? Regularly review your credit reports. The credit bureaus offer services, such as Equifax Credit Watch, http://tinyurl.com/5qb47 that can help you monitor any inquiries against your credit file.
? Don't give out financial information on the phone unless you initiated the call. This means your Social Security number, credit card or checking account numbers. Your bank will never call you and ask you to provide that information.
? Store all personal and financial information in a safe place, especially if you have outside workers in your home.
? Report any lost or stolen checks immediately. Ask your bank to stop payment on any missing checks.
? Review your new checks when delivered to make sure none are missing.
? Store new checks and cancelled checks in a safe place. Be sure to tear up or shred any checks that you are discarding.
? Don't share any of your passwords or PINs. Be sure you enter them discreetly so no one can see. Also, properly store or dispose of your ATM receipts.
? Tear up any financial solicitations or documents before throwing away. We recommend using a shredder when possible.
? Outgoing mail should be placed in a secure mailbox, instead of being left in your own mailbox.
? Pick up your mail promptly. If you're going to be on vacation, ask someone you trust to collect your mail for you while you are away, or ask the Post Office to hold your mail until you return. You can get an
Authorization to Hold Mail form at your local post office, or you can access it online on the US Postal Service's Web site ? www.usps.com/forms Or, call the U.S. Postal Service at 1-800-275-8777 to request a vacation hold.
? Keep an eye on your monthly bills. If they don't arrive as expected, contact the company to investigate.

Look for any suspicious charges and report them immediately.

What do I do if I'm a victim?

If you find you have become a victim of identity theft, you should take action by communicating with the credit bureaus and any companies that may be involved.

Many financial institutions and companies that conduct business on the Internet have become the target of fraudulent email and Web site scams. These scams are known as ?phishes,? (pronounced ?fishes?) and they
attempt to illegally obtain clients' personal and account information.
Credit and charge card fraud costs cardholders and banks hundreds of millions of dollars every year. The theft of your credit cards is a common way to commit fraud, but someone can use your account number fraudulently while your card sits safely in your wallet.

The following tips will help you reduce the chances that you will become a victim of credit card fraud:
? Sign your cards immediately once they arrive in the mail.
? Memorize your PIN and don't write it on anything, especially something in your wallet.
? Don't enter your card online unless you're on a secure site. Don't send your credit card number in an email.
? Keep a record of all your account numbers, expiration dates, and contact information for each issuer. This will come in handy if your wallet is lost or stolen.
? Report a lost or stolen card right away. Quick action will minimize potential loss and liability.
? Save your receipts to compare against your billing statement. When discarding receipts, tear them up or shred them.
? Monitor your statements monthly, making sure you recognize all charges. If you see any suspicious transactions, contact your bank immediately.
? Carefully review receipts for voided transactions and be sure they do not post to your account.
? Destroy your carbons. Do not leave them behind without tearing them up.
? Don't leave your purse, wallet, cards or receipts unattended. Always keep them secure or in your sight.
? Only carry cards that you need, leaving others in a safe place at home.
? Don't give out your account number unless you know and trust the company.

Here are some precautions to consider when using an
ATM:
? Be sure ATM and parking lot are well lit when using at night. Avoid going alone.
? Don't use an ATM if you notice any suspicious activity. It is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Find another ATM, or come back at a safer time. Report any suspicious activity to the police.
? Don't count your money at the ATM. Wait until you are in your car or, even better, are safely at home.
? When using Drive-up ATMs, keep your doors locked, other windows rolled up and the car running.
? Prepare yourself by filling out all deposit slips ahead of time.
? Report your lost or stolen card immediately.

? When traveling, here are some security precautions to consider:
? Carry limited cash. Use traveler's checks or withdraw money with your ATM card as you need it. Keep your traveler's check receipts in a safe place that is separate from your traveler's checks.
? Keep a spare credit card in a safe place. Only carry the cards that you'll need. If your wallet gets stolen or lost, you'll have another credit card you can use.
? Know where you're going. It's a good idea to find out where the less safe parts of town are so you can avoid them, especially at night.
? Make a photocopy of your passport. Keeping a photocopy of your passport will help if yours is lost or stolen. In the event of loss or theft of your passport, visit the closest US embassy or consulate.
? Don't let your mail accumulate while you're away. If you're going to be on vacation, ask someone you trust to collect your mail for you while you are away, or ask the Post Office to hold your mail until you
return. You can get an Authorization to Hold Mail form at your local post office, or you can access it online on the US Postal Service's Web site ? www.usps.com/forms Or, call the U.S. Postal Service at 1-800-275-8777 to request a vacation hold.

If you're a victim of fraud, here are some important actions you should take:
? File a report with your police department. Make sure to keep a copy for your files.
? Contact the fraud departments of all three credit bureaus and let them know you are a victim of identity theft. They can place a "fraud alert" on your file. This informs any credit grantors that they should be especially careful when authenticating anyone who is applying for credit in your name. You should also
request copies of your credit report from each bureau. This request must be in writing and they should be free if you mention you have experienced fraud. For further information, contact each bureau at the numbers
listed below.

o Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
o Experian: 1-888-397-3742
o Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
? Contact all lending institutions that issued a fraudulent account in your name. Close all the accounts immediately.
? Report the incident to the Identity Theft Hotline at 1-877-438-4338. This hotline is operated by the federal government and is a central point for reporting identity theft. You can also report the incident via
their Web site at www.consumer.gov/idtheft or by mail at:
Identity Theft Clearing House
Federal Trade Commission
600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20508
? Contact your nearest postal inspection service if you believe your mail has been stolen. Check www.usps.com/ncsc/locators/find-is.html for the closest office near you.
? Close all your accounts that have had a fraudulent address change. When re-opening accounts, ask that a special password be required when making any changes to your account.
? Contact the major check verification companies if you have had any checks stolen or used fraudulently. They can help you track your checks.

o Equifax Check Systems: 1-800-437-5120
o Cross Check: 1-707-586-0431
o SCAN: 1-800-262-7771
o TeleCheck: 1-800-710-9898
? Contact your broker and the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) if you suspect your investment accounts have been tampered with. You can submit your complaint online to the SEC at

www.sec.gov/complaint.shtml or you can write or call them at :
SEC Office of the Investor Education and Assistance
450 Fifth Street NW
Washington, DC 20549- 0213

_________________________

True story, my husband and I have been victims of Identiy Theft TWICE. Once when our cc/debit card number was stolen while we were staying in a hotel and once when we ordered replacement checks. Someone ordered a debit card for us to be delivered to him.

The first one took us 3 months to catch cause the charges never exceeded $49.95 a month. The second one took us 36 hours to catch. Both times, our bank was extremely helpful.

One thing we have learned out of this is to take every account you have and special passcode it. Usually they ask for mother's or father's middle or maiden name. We refuse to give that and make them take a special passcode instead. And they do it. And neither my husband or I will talk to the company involved until they verify that passcode. Liz

[BamaStangGuy]

Thanks for the heads up

I always do the same thing you do when I get a call on my cell from a number I dont recognize. Google is good for that