Tips on preventing, handling identity theft

One of the major targets of identity theft is seniors. Many times they are easy prey as they may be unaware if there identity is stolen. The Kansas Senior Press Service has gathered these tips on preventing and handling indentity theft.

* The next time you order checks, have only your initials, instead of your first name, put on them. If someone takes your checkbook, he or she will not know how you sign your checks -- but your bank will know.

* Do not sign the backs of your credit cards. Instead, write "Photo ID required."

* When you are writing checks to your credit card accounts, do not enter the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check-processing channels won't have access to it.

* If you have a work phone number, list that number on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a post office box, list that instead of your home address.

* Never have your Social Security number printed on your checks. You can add it if necessary.

* We have all been told to cancel our credit cards immediately if they are stolen. But the key is having the toll-free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them. To do this easily, place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Copy both sides of each license, credit card, etc. If your wallet is stolen, you will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place.

* If you travel, carry a photocopy of your passport.

* If your wallet is stolen, file a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where the theft occurred. This proves to credit providers that you were diligent, and it's a first step toward an investigation (if one is needed).

* In the event of theft, call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. The alert means that any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

* Equifax: (800) 525-6285

* Experian (formerly TRW): (888) 397-3742

* Trans Union: (800) 680-7289

* Social Security Administration fraud line: (800) 269-0271