A Little Privacy Please

The Bible tells us to be in the world, but not of the world. Good advice. But with respect to our personal lives, and particularly our financial affairs, sometimes we could use a little less of the world. Here are a few suggestions to help preserve your privacy:

Social Security number. Do not use your social security number for your driver’s license number, and avoid giving your social security number to anyone, unless the transaction requires you to do so. Also, avoid using your date of birth on anything, unless required.

Eliminating junk mail. You may opt out of solicitations for pre-approval credit card and insurance offers. You may opt out online at www.optoutprescreen.com or call 888-5-OPTOUT (888-567-8688).

Eliminating telemarketers. To prevent telemarketing phone calls you can opt out by calling 888-382-1222 from your cell phone. This call will block your number for five years. You may also register online at www.donotcall.gov.

Check your credit report. A consumer may order one free credit report annually from each of the three credit reporting agencies. The agencies have established a central website at www.annualcreditreport.com where consumers can request credit reports. You may also order a report by calling 877-322-8228. To order in writing, contact Annual Credit Report Request Service, P. O. Box 105281, Atlanta, Georgia 30348-5281.

WARNING: The website www.freecreditreport.com is NOT FREE and is a for-profit service.

Dee Sokolosky

President - First Bank of Owasso