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Identity Theft: On the rise

  • Published
  • By Capt. Deric Prescott
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Chief, Military Justice
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  You can become a victim of a crime by not properly safeguarding your private information.
With credit cards, social security numbers, checks and other sensitive information it is crucial that you protect these items from prying eyes.
Here are some dos and don'ts to help protect yourself from credit and charge card fraud.
DO:
▪ Sign your cards as soon as they arrive.
▪ Carry your cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered compartment, a business card holder, or another small pouch.
▪ Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a secure place.
▪ Keep an eye on your card during the transaction, and get it back as quickly as possible.
▪ Void incorrect receipts.
▪ Destroy carbons.
▪ Save receipts to compare with billing statements.
▪ Open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your checking account.
▪ Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer.
▪ Notify card companies in advance of a change in address.

DON'T:
▪ Lend your card(s) to anyone.
▪ Leave cards or receipts lying around.
▪ Sign a blank receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through any blank spaces above the total.
▪ Write your account number on a postcard or the outside of an envelope.
▪ Give out your account number over the phone unless you're making the call to a company you know is reputable. If you have questions about a company, check it out with your local consumer protection office or Better Business Bureau.

While you may be able to be reimbursed for SOME losses from having your credit cards or identity stolen, each circumstance is different and not taking the few extra steps to protect your private information does not make any sense--considering the incredible problems that victims of scams and identity theft experience.
Finally, it is CRUCIAL for you to review all terms of any contract that you sign.
Whether purchasing a TV or a used car, make sure you READ AND UNDERSTAND what you are signing to include the monthly payments and the interest rates.
If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to take the documents and read them at home or schedule an appointment with a legal assistance attorney.
The legal office has copies of the 2007 Consumer Action Handbook. This text contains many contact numbers for various agencies and can be a very useful tool to assist you in solving consumer issues.
Do not let yourself become the next victim of fraud! Please contact the legal office for additional information or for a legal assistance appointment.