Holding on to your identity

Re “Follow the bouncing checks,” Column One, Oct. 15

I have suggestions for helping to minimize identity theft and the headaches associated with bogus checks and fraudulent credit card charges:

* Get a post office box or private mailbox for all sensitive and financial mail.

* Use checks to pay utility bills or the government. For all others, use credit cards, cash or money orders.

* Put a freeze on all three credit reporting agencies. No one can open up a credit card in your name.

* Scammers sometimes send out a check for $5 as a promotional gimmick. Throw them away. Once you cash it, they will know your bank, signature and account number.

Henry Sakaida

Temple City