Fraud Prevention Checklist

Use a fanny pack or close-fitting pouch rather than a purse or wallet when you are out in public. 

Don’t carry your Social Security card with you; remove your Social Security number from your driver's license and checks.

Deposit all outgoing mail at your post office rather than placing in your mailbox for carrier pickup. 

Use a confetti or crosscut shredder on all financial mail and documents.

Avoid talking to strangers on the telephone, at your door or on the street.

Sign up for the Colorado "No-Call" list.   

Request those with whom you have established business relationships (phone companies, banks, credit card issuers) to put you on their "Do-Not-Call" and "Opt-Out" lists.

Send a letter to the Mail Preference Service  to remove your name from marketing lists. 

Research charitable organizations before donating. Develop an annual charitable giving plan rather than giving to charities that solicit by telephone or door-to-door.

Get three written bids before contracting for any home improvement and evaluate contractors with help from the Better Business Bureau  (BBB) and city building department. 

Contact an attorney to discuss a Living Will and Powers of Attorney and to establish a system of checks and balances so no one person has total control over your finances.