Protect Yourself from Check Forging

We found this great article about protecting yourself from check fraud. It gives great tips on what to look for so you don't fall victim.

HERE'S A STARTLING FACT: More than 500 million checks are forged annually. Fortunately, sophisticated security features can be built into checks to help consumers, businesses and banks avoid check fraud. Most checks have these features.
Here's a look at the top safety features.
Micro print signature line. The signature line appears as a solid line and contains the words "AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE", printed in a small font that is legible when viewed closely or with a magnifying glass. If scanned or photo copied, the micro print text is not legible and appears as a broken line.
Padlock icon. A padlock symbol is printed on the check face to indicate that at least two overt (easily seen) security features are present. The icon alerts check handlers and criminals that security features are present.
Security warning box. A warning box printed on the back of the check indicates the security features present and what happens when a check is altered.Original document. "ORIGINAL DOCUMENT" is printed in very light ink on the back of the check so that it cannot be easily copied or scanned. -The Costco Connection

Your Credit Score

Know Your Credit Score

This is some valuable information whether you are getting a home loan or a simple cell phone account. Your credit history and your credit score makes all the difference in the world.
It's not your social security number, your phone number, or your birth date. While most of us don't know this number, it essentially dictates your finances. This number is your credit score. A credit score number is a number that lenders use to help them decide "if I give this person a loan or credit card, how likely is it that I'll be paid back on time?" Also, called a credit risk score, this number is a statistical measure of the risk that you'll be able to repay the debt as agreed.If you're planning on making a major purchase, taking out a loan, or applying for a credit card, you're going to need a good credit rating.

To check your credit rating you may go to one of the following web sites or call:
Equifax: www.equifax.com or 1-800-685-1111
Trans Union: www.transunion.com or 1-877-322-8228
Experian: www.experian.com or or 1-888-397-3742

Buffini & Co.

Keep Safe During Stormy Weather

In light of the tornado that hit N.H. It makes us wonder if this is what caused homes to implode. It is dangerous to open a window in a storm. Opening a window brings in high-pressure air, which then must escape. That's usually out other windows or doors, or through the ceiling or roof. Cracking the window could even cause a house to explode. A better defense is keeping all windows closed so air flows over, not into the house. If there is some warning it would be wise to cover windows with plywood.

This has been an active stormy summer with the threat of more severe weather to come. So please keep windows closed when the winds start blowing, and keep safe.


Contributing information found on the This Old House website