Identity theft precautions

Identity Theft Precautions was the topic as Ron Hendren addressed the Hannibal Evening Kiwanians June 23. Hendren shared stories concerning identity theft and recommended a number of things that any person can do to help protect themselves: Do not sign the back of credit cards, instead put “Photo ID Required,” Do not put full credit card numbers on checks, use only the last four digits. Do not have your Social Security number printed on your checks. Copy the contents of your wallet, everything both sides. If you become a victim of identity theft file a police report in the jurisdiction where your card was stolen. Keep handy and call the three national credit reporting agencies and the Social Security fraud line: 1) EQUIFAX 1-800-525-5285, 2) EXPERIAN 1-888-397-3742, 3) TRANS UNION 1-800-680-7289, 4) SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 1-800-269-0271. Immediate calls to the credit bureaus to file an “ALERT” can prevent an internet application for credit in your name. Ron Hendren is a member of the Hannibal Evening Kiwanis. To learn more about Kiwanis, ask a Kiwanian to bring you as a guest to one a Monday evening meeting the Quality Inn and Suites or visit www.hannibalkiwanis.org.