Credit Card Fraud Alert Heads up if you Pay

							                                    Credit Card Fraud Alert
                               Heads up if you “Pay at the Pump!”

July 11, 2008
Total number pages 2 including this page.

Questions have been raised regarding the Credit Card Fraud Alert that was sent out earlier today
from the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office on using the CLEAR button following your gas purchase
at the pump. Using a CLEAR button after you purchase of gas at the pump does not protect you
from fraud. A properly operating fuel dispenser is designed to complete a transaction when the
nozzle is hung up with no further action of the part of the customer.

Dishonest people can use various methods and tools to extract a person’s credit card information
from any point of sale. The best defense we as buyers have is to be aware. Make sure you hang
up the gas nozzle correctly when you are finished pumping your gas. Review your receipt at the
pump for the amount charged, if it is not correct contact the store clerk. Always check your monthly
credit card statements to insure them for accuracy and contact your credit company immediately if
there is an error.

The Federal Trade Commission also suggests the following to help protect yourself from credit and
charge card fraud:
     • Sign your cards as soon as they arrive.
     • Carry your cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered compartment, a business
        card holder, or another small pouch.
     • Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone
        number and address of each company in a secure place.
     • Keep an eye on your card during the transaction, and get it back as quickly as
        possible.
     • Void incorrect receipts.
     • Destroy carbons.
     • Save receipts to compare with billing statements.
     • Open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your checking
        account.

                                         (Continued)
     •   Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer.
     •   Notify card companies in advance of a change in address.
     •   Don’t lend your card(s) to anyone.
     •   Don’t leave cards or receipts lying around.
     •   Do not sign a blank receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through any blank
         spaces above the total.
     •   Do not write your account number on a postcard or the outside of an envelope.
     •   Do not give out your account number over the phone unless you're making the call to
         a company you know is reputable. If you have questions about a company, check it
         out with your local consumer protection office or Better Business Bureau.

For additional information about identify theft and ways to protect against it visit the Federal
Trade Commission’s website on identity theft: http://www.ftc.gov/idtheft

For further information please call Sheriff Robinson at 720-874-4165.