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to follow links in an e-mail to update your account information. This type of e-mail is always a scam, phishing' or an attempt at identity theft.

* PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION WHEN USING CREDIT CARDS *

Sign your credit cards with a proper authorizing signature immediately after receiving them. Many people believe that writing "See ID" or "Photo ID Required" in the signature block of their credit cards somehow protects them from fraud. Unfortunately this is one of those urban legends, and just the opposite is true!

A credit card is not valid unless signed. Showing ID or providing supplemental information with your credit card transaction simply gives additional information to a potential identity thief.

Any merchant who requires that you show ID along with your credit card is putting you at risk and is violating his merchant's agreement with Visa and MasterCard.

Both Visa and MasterCard ask that consumers report merchant violations of their credit card policies, which include:
* In order to make a Visa or MasterCard purchase, the merchant/retailer required a minimum or maximum amount.

* The merchant/retailer is adding a charge for using your Visa or MasterCard.

> > THE MERCHANT/RETAILER REQUIRED IDENTIFICATION

* A merchant/retailer displaying the Visa or MasterCard decal in their window refused to accept my card.

You can contact MasterCard Customer Service at: 1-800-300-3069 or on-line at: http://www.mastercard.com/us/p ersonal/en/contactus/merchantv iolations.html

You can contact Visa Customer service at: 1-800-428-1858 of via e-mail at:
askvisacorporate@visa.com

* BE CAUTIOUS WHEN USING PERSONAL CHECKS *

* Limit the amount of personal information on your checks. For example, do not include your Social Security Number, driver's license number or telephone numbers on your checks. A criminal can use this information to literally steal your identity by applying for a credit card or loan in your name, or even open a new checking account.

* Never write your credit card number on a check.

* Never give your checking account number to people you do not know, especially over the telephone. Be especially suspicious of unsolicited telephone sales / solicitations. Scam artists can use your checking account information to make withdrawals from your account without your authorization and you may end up being responsible (if you provided your account number).

* Consider not using checks for face-to-face purchases. Instead use a debit card linked to your checking account. Most merchants

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