Moderator Tom Kennemer introduced the Fraud
Summit with this opening statement: "Hold on to your money by
avoiding schemes, fraud and some In-Laws!"
Yes, 50% of identity thefts are from our
family, close friends and folks we trust!
"You are the best protector of your own
information," was the message from Josephine M. Johnson,
Public Protection Specialist, Consumer Affairs Division.
"Don't carry your Social Security card around with you in
your wallet, don't carry your bank card and insurance card
if you aren't going there, and especially don't write your
PIN number on your bank card," said Johnson.
Other helpful tips from the panel of
specialist were:
Don't include your birth year or your
children's on your Facebook page.
Don't put your payments in your home
mailbox, take them to the Post Office or place them in a mail drop
box. The raised flag on your mail box is a signal to
criminals, they can take your mail and 'wash' your check to
use for their own purpose.
Let the answer machine screen unidentified
calls, you can always call back the important or legitimate
calls.
Tear off your prescription labels before
discarding in the trash, and heavily mark out the information or
tear them up.
Tell your bank not to send convenience checks
unless you ask for them.
When possible shop in pairs, be aware of
your surroundings, and never leave your purse in open view
in the car. If you aren't going to carry your bag or purse,
place in your trunk prior to arriving at your destination.
Crooks do watch the parking lots!
When you go out of town, ask the Post Office
to hold your mail. Neighbors are great to pick up your mail
for you, but you don't know who will be visiting them to
possibly lift your information.
Some of the most common scams are:
Driveway pavers - those who just stop in - out in the
neighborhood.
Yard workers, again they just stop in without being called.
Receive a check and are asked to cash, keep X amount for you and
send remainder to the sender.
Lottery Winners - if you didn't enter or purchase a lottery
ticket, you can't be a winner.
Remember criminals are really good interviewers - they
will extract information from you without you realizing what
you have given.
Teresa Todd/AthensPlus.com
June 8th 2010
