Safety essentials

Here are some tips for you to follow:

1. Do not use the same user name and password for your financial institution and other sites where you may conduct transactions as you use for social or recreational sites. Follow the tips for creating a good password.
2. Use an anti-virus software package and make sure you have it set up to scan your system automatically.
3. Ensure your computer and Internet browser are up to date by running updates as requested. Visit the manufacturer’s Web site and download any updates as needed.
4. Change your user name and password frequently.
5. If you are a victim of identity theft, contact your financial institutions (banks, credit unions, credit card companies) who are affected and contact the following organizations which maintain information about your credit ratings.

Credit rating organizations

Equifax	Experian	TransUnion
www.equifax.com	www.experian.com	www.tuc.com
Report Fraud: 1-800-525-6285 Order a credit report 1-800-685-1111 P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 30374-0241	Report Fraud: 1-888-397-3742 Order a credit report 1-88-397-3742 P.O. Box 1017 Allen, TX 75013-0949	Report Fraud: 1-800-680-7289 Order a Credit Report 1-800-916-8800 Fraud Victim Assistance Department P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834

If your social security number is stolen, apply for a new one with the Social Security Administration.