Fraud Prevention

This involves someone getting your card account number, expiration date, security code, or PIN. There is a lot in the news about hackers getting this information from retailers. This can also occur when:

• Your card is out of your hands.
• You sell items online.
• You answer a phishing email.
• Your computer, phone, or tablet are not secure.

• Simply defined, ACH fraud is any unauthorized funds transfer that occurs in a bank account.  All the fraudster needs is an account number and a bank routing number to execute the fraud.

• Identity theft (ID theft) is a crime where personal information is taken and used fraudulently. The most invasive ID theft is when a criminal gains access to your Social Security Number (SSN). With your SSN and a few pieces of information, they can acquire debt in your name. The most common ID thefts happen when a criminal gains access to a credit card number or bank account number and makes unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.

• It's a funny name, but being a victim of a "phishing" attack (and identity theft) is no laughing matter. Phishing scams attempt to get personal information by urging you to send your information as a response to an email that appears to come from a legitimate source. For example, some "phishers" send an email saying it’s from your bank or credit union. The email might tell them you've unsuccessfully signed in to an online banking service and asks you to try again, using a link in the email. The link sends you to a fraudulent site where identity theft could occur.

Delete spam emails that ask for personal information, and keep your anti-virus and anti-spyware software up-to-date. Shop online only with secure web pages (check the bottom of your browser for an image of a lock or look for “https” in the address bar). Never send credit or debit card numbers, Social Security Numbers, and other personal information via email. 

Tear up or shred credit card statements; ATM, credit, or debit card receipts; bank deposit receipts; loan solicitations; and other documents that contain personal financial information.

Empty your mailbox quickly and get a mailbox lock. When mailing bill payments and checks, consider dropping them off at the post office or a secure mailbox.

Your Social Security Number is a major target for identity thieves because it can give them access to your credit report and bank accounts. Never carry your card with you. Instead, memorize your number and keep the card in a secure place at home or in a safe deposit box. Never write or print your Social Security Number on checks. You may also ask your employer to remove your Social Security Number from your paycheck stubs.

At least once a year, obtain and review your credit report for suspicious activity. You can request a free copy of your report at www.annualcreditreport.com or by contacting any one of the three major credit reporting agencies. Learn how in our Building Credit resource.

Always be on the defensive with your financial information. Never give out personal information to telemarketers or respond to emails from someone claiming to represent your bank, credit card company, a government agency, a charity, or other organization. If you think the request is legitimate, contact the company directly to confirm their claims.

Let us know before you go:

• Connect with an ESL Representative prior to travel.
• Verify we have your correct phone number and email address for contact.
• Use your PIN for debit card transactions, if possible.
• Carry ESL phone numbers with you when you travel:
  • General: 585.336.1000 or 800.848.2265
  • Fraud Department: 585.336.1140 or 888.353.9920

In general, be on the alert for opportunities that may attract thieves:

• Receipts – Do not leave credit card receipts on the table at restaurants; sign them and hand them directly back to the server. Keep your copy of all receipts.
• Wallets – Stolen wallets frequently lead to identity theft, so instead of carrying your wallet in your pocket or having it easily accessible in your bag, use travel pouches that are worn inside your shirt.
• Checks – Leave checkbooks at home in a locked safe or drawer. Checking account takeover is one of the hardest types of financial fraud to clear up.
• Camera phones – That tourist with a camera phone may actually be taking a shot of your credit card or driver’s license. Keep important personal information out of view from others.
• Mail – Put your mail on postal hold whenever you travel, and arrange for mail to only be picked up by you at the post office when you return.
• Hotels – Lock up all valuables in room or hotel safes while you are out, including laptops, passports, and other documents that contain your personal information. Do not leave these items with a hotel employee to transport or hold – carry them yourself.
• Airplanes – Do not put any items that contain your Social Security Number, card numbers, or financial institution account numbers in checked luggage. Always carry them with you.