• Before providing any information, know exactly how it will be used and if it will be shared with others.

• Don’t give your credit card or bank account numbers out over the phone, unless you made the call and are familiar with the party you are giving them to.

• Never give account numbers to unknown persons or entities over the Internet and before conducting any business online, make sure the site with which you are dealing is securely protected.

• When asking to provide a security identifier, give something other that your mother’s maiden name or your city of birth.

• Never have your Social Security number, driver’s license number or date of birth printed on your checks.  Give this information out only when required.