FRAUD ALERT!
Detecting ID Theft: Quicker the Better
To minimize the effects of ID theft, self-detection is the best protection.
- Monitor your account balances and activity at least weekly. This will help you catch
the fraud earlier. Access your account through the Internet or by telephone, rather
than wait for a paper statement.
- If you do not have access to online accounts, review mailed bank and credit card
statements monthly. You have 30 days from the date of your bank statement to report
check fraud - 60 days to report credit card fraud - and the most for which you will
be liable is $50.
- Monitor your credit report at least annually. Since it is harder to detect someone
using your identity to open new accounts, reviewing your credit report is crucial.
You can get a free report each year from the three credit agencies (Equifax, Experian
& TransUnion) at a single phone number 1-877-322-8228 or website
www.annualcreditreport.com online,
(do not use any other website you may receive.) Space the three reports out over the
year instead of getting all three at once.
- Consider paying bills online or through automated plans. You can safely pay bills
online through secure Internet sites or use automated plans. Password-protect your
computer and sensitive files; ensure your computer has a firewall to protect from
Internet attacks; regularly update your anti-virus/anti-spyware software; keep your
operating system security features current, and turn off your computer when not in use.
For assistance call the
DA's Elder Fraud Line:
(209) 468-2488
CASE is a Partnership of the District Attorney and the Community to Prevent Elder Financial Exploitation
San Joaquin County District Attorney • 222 E.
Weber Ave., Room 202, Stockton, CA 95202
• (209) 468-2400
