1.  Do not sign the back of your credit cards.  Rather, write “PHOTO ID REQUIRED."

2.  When you are writing checks to pay your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line.  Instead, just put the last four 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 check processing channels will have access to it.

3.  Put your work phone on your checks instead of your home phone.  If you have a PO Box use that instead of your home address.  If you do not have a PO Box, use your work address.  Never have your SS# printed on your checks.

4.  Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine.  Copy both sides of each license, credit card, etc.  You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel should it ever be lost or stolen.   Keep  the photocopy in a safe place.  Also carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel.

5.  Cancel your credit cards immediately.  The key, however, is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy.  Keep those where you can find them.

6.  File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen.  This proves to credit providers that you were diligent, and this is a first step towards an investigation if necessary.

7. Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line.
Below are these four important phone numbers:

1) Equifax: 800-525-6285
2) Experian (formerly TRW): 888-397-3742
3) Trans Union: 800-680-7289
4) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 800-269-0271

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Don't be the victim of an email phishing scam.

Essex Savings Bank will NEVER use email to request your
personal account or password information.

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Below are some links to informative sites containing further information that every online customer should read

Take Charge: Fighting Back Against Identity Theft

Phishing Fundamentals:  Don't get Hooked

 

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