An efficient thinking and quick response can often help in protecting yourself when your wallet is lost
. Be sure to act fast and to do so you need to know certain facts. Wallets often contain debit and credit cards, social security cards and many other documents which may be private. So you need to safeguard them in order to stay safe in an incident of wallet theft.
It is always recommended that you do not put your signature on the back of your debit or credit card. It is always recommended that you do not put your signature on the back of your debit or credit card. Instead you can leave a note "Photo ID required". This prevents anyone else from using your card.
It is not necessary that you write your complete bank account number on the checks you fill. The last four numbers of your account number is only that matters. Bank officials can easily recognize your account number without any issues. This prevents anyone from misusing your account number.
Revealing your social security number is a major issue. This can be very dangerous as it is used for identity theft. Most of the cases registered against identity theft involve the misuse of social security number. Also avoid transferring them through any kind of media as they can be easily traced.
It is not necessary that you should carry the original driving license, Personal ID cards etc. An attested copy is all that is required. Keep the originals somewhere safe at your home. So in case you lose your wallet, there is nothing to worry about.
Always keep a record of the most important contacts you need. Write down in a diary or store your account number and contact details of your lawyer, bank and other card issuing authorities, in your mobile. This will enable you to contact them in case of any emergency. When you lose your wallet it is very important that you contact the bank authorities and report about the incident. This will initiate the process of blocking your account and prevent misuse of your credit/debit cards.