Identity Theft

	Report lost or stolen checks immediately. Review new deliveries of checks to make sure none have been stolen in transit.
	Notify your bank of suspicious phone inquiries such as those asking for account information to “verify a statement” or “award a prize”.
	Shred financial solicitations or financial statements before disposing of them.
	Deposit your mail into a secure, official Postal Service collection box.
	If regular bills fail to reach you, call the company to find out why. Someone may have filed a false change-of-address notice to divert your mail and steal your identity.
	If your bills include questionable items, investigate immediately. This is often the first sign of identity theft fraud.
	Avoid phishing scams. Never reply directly or click on a link in response to an email that asks for personal or financial information. If you are concerned about your account contact the company or institution via a website you know to be genuine. Remember – your bank will never contact you “out of the blue” to ask for personal financial information.