• Never give your checking or savings account information over the phone to a business or individual unless you initiated the call or know and trust the company.
  
• Be sure to read all agreements before you sign them and keep a copy of all signed agreements for your records.
  
• Authorizations for Direct Payments must be made in writing and must be signed by the customer or authenticated by “digital signature.” (Digital signature refers to authorization via computer device using a secure password or code, such as an ATM personal identification number.)
  
• For Electronic Check applications, the company must notify you in writing on your bill or post a notice at the checkout counter. An electronic payment is fraudulent if the company has not obtained such authorization.
  
• All written authorizations for Direct Payment should be readily identifiable as authorizations to debit your account.
  
• Make sure you trust the company you are doing business with before you sign an authorization or provide them your account information.
  
• Do not give your PIN number to anyone. Don’t write your PIN number on your card or carry it in your wallet or purse. Funds can be stolen from your account by anyone who has your card and your PIN number.
  
• If you want to stop making payments by Direct Payment, you should notify the company. Information about how to contact the company should be included on your authorization form. If not, contact the company directly.
  
• If your checks or checkbook are lost or stolen, notify your financial institution immediately.
  
• When a retailer offers a Point-of-Purchase, make sure that the check you supplied for your account information is returned to you stamped void before you leave the store.
  
• Be sure to check your account statement for errors every month. If you notice any transactions that you did not authorize or that are for the incorrect amount, notify your financial institution immediately.
  
• Never leave receipts at bank machines, bank counters, trash receptacles, or unattended gasoline pumps.
  
• Do not enter account information or initiate payments for a website that is not secure. Most browsers indicate the security of a website by activating an alert message or using the sign of a padlock on the browser window.
  
• Remember to review your monthly bills not only for the payment due amount, but also to see if they are using electronic checks to collect funds.

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