Checks And Identity Theft
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People view checks as convenient and may be afraid to
get a debit card because it requires changing their
old routine. These little rectangular pieces of paper have the ability to ruin
your life for years. They
have an enormous amount of your personal information
on them.
Every single check has your bank account and
routing numbers right there on the bottom.
In skilled hands, just these numbers alone can enable
someone to get money right from your account and
deposit it in their own. Sure you will find out on
your next bank statement but by then, the damage is
done.
Another important piece of information on a paper
check is your full name and address. Many married
couples put the name of their spouse on there as well.
Now they have two identities to steal.
Identity
thieves absolutely love it when people are foolish
enough to put social security numbers on the check
too. There is no reason anyone should ever do that.
If your social security number is on there with your
name, address, account number and routing number, you
might as well walk strangers into your house and give
them all of your bank statements, credit card bills,
and utility bills.
If your checkbook is stolen,
even if you cancel the checks, the information is all
still on them. Be very careful to keep your checks
secure and put as little information on them as
possible on them.
Next Section - Identity
Theft and Your Home Computer
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