CREDIT? “My Word is My Bond!”

It has been said, “My word is my bond!” Some of us still operate on that premise. Some do not.

If we promise something, verbal or written, it should be honored. Adherence to this produces credibility.

Some, even if mistakes are made, have diligently performed in accordance with their commitments. The risks are high for criminals to misuse our valuable assets.

If someone “steals our identity”, i.e.,

• Name


• Address


• Telephone Number


• Social Security Number

they have free reign to use it as they choose. This often results in many thousands of dollars of charges, for which we may or may not be liable.

In the best of scenarios, if we are successful in shedding liability for the fraudulent action, it may cost several thousand dollars in the legal actions involved. This, together with the time and grief involved, makes it a significant event.

We are advised to shred all documents rather than trash them. This includes ANYTHING with your name, address, phone number, or just any identifying feature that might be used in any criminal act against you.

Again, the best shield is vigilance! Keep a close watch on your reports (all of them). If you detect any unauthorized action, notify the appropriate people.

There are some good programs to help shield against fraud. Some of these are administered by card issuers. Some are issued by private firms.