Security
Stolen Credit Cards, etc. I just have an idea that I would like to pass along that may help travelers eliminate the pain of having their wallets stolen, containing valuable credit cards and ID, while traveling in areas such as Rio, Paris or New York City.
I have an old wallet that I now carry in my pocket containing credit cards that have been cancelled (but show a future expiration dates) and other such personal items such as an old expired driver's license. If the wallet is stolen, the thieves are satisfied that they hit pay dirt but instead get worthless credit cards and "ID". It's a good reason to close credit card accounts that you really don't need. I keep 1 current card and ID in another discrete pocket. Hope it helps- Best Regards, -- Rick Easson. 05 Jul 2007
If you are being robbed and have a second wallet or billfold as described then you should first let him see it and then toss it over his shoulder and run for it. Almost always he will go for the wallet. Do not throw it too far away. Stuff it with low donomination banknotes as it is usually cash that street robbers are after. Do not do what one of my colleagues did and bring both wallets out at the same time. -- Richard McGill
Home Security Tips
1. Do not throw out your personal information. Especially your social security number. Credit card information, balances on loans, or credit reports. A personal shredder can be purchased for around $20 and may prevent thousands of dollars lost to identity theft. Make sure that the one you select does a proper job, that is, it not only shreds the paper but cuts it into short pieces.
2. Walk around the outside perimeter of your home periodically to see if your house has inviting places for criminal activity. Trim hedges and bushes that give the criminal element the advantage. Check and replace any lighting that is missing or broken. A criminals friend is darkness. Take it away from him and you take away his advantage. Look for these and more personal security in the inaugural edition of Security Now, a monthly E-zine focused on providing you with the latest in personal and family security. For more info contact Doug Wisnioski of Trojan Horse International at secureit1@earthlink.net Doug Wisnioski
Bogus Fraud Investigators: There have been many reports recently concerning unsolicited calls to credit card holders purportedly from card company fraud investigators. Should you receive any such calls from individuals claiming to be representatives of financial institutions or fraud investigation departments never reveal any details of accounts /circumstances or personal information. If you are concerned about the source of the call then ask the caller for a main switch board number through which you can be routed back to them. Alternatively take their details and then make your own enquiries via a published card supplier contact e.g. on the reverse of your card.
Remember if the caller is genuine then they will have access to all the relevant details and you should only confirm to them any items they query and not supply further security information unless you are satisfied as to who you are in contact with. -- The London Metropolitan police
ATM security Tips --
1. Pay close attention to the appearance of the ATM. ATM Skimming is fast becoming a problem, a fake ATM with a card reader and computer can gather details of hundreds or thousands of account details and PINs before it is discovered.
2. Be wary of people trying to help you with ATM transactions.
3. Do not use an ATM that appears unusual looking or offers options with which you are not familiar or comfortable.
4. Do not allow people to look over your shoulder as you enter your PIN code.
5. Do not re-enter your PIN if the ATM eats your card -- contact a bank official immediately.
6. Never write your PIN on the back of your card.
7. Do your automated banking in a public, well-lighted location.
8. Never count cash at the machine or in public. Wait until you are home, in your car or another secure place.
9. When using a drive-up ATM, keep your engine running, your doors and windows locked and leave enough room between your car and others in the ATM drive-up line.
10. Closely monitor your bank statements, as well as your balance, and immediately report any problems to your bank. -- Margaretta P
Personal Attack Alarms are effective if used correctly. You must not allow the assailant to get it from you. Combined with an attack such as a kick in the groin or shins it can disorient him and allow you to get away. Shouting and screaming can also add a bit of urgency as people have gotten used to alarms going off.
Loud Whistle - Some whistles can produce 115dB of sound which works just as well as an electronic alarm and has the advantage of never needing batteries.
Links:
Corporate Informational security -- Contact Coseam UK
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