OUTFOX PHONE FRAUD!
	Don't look now, but telephone fraud could be happening right behind your back!
	Telephone fraud is a subtle, but fast-paced crime that rings up over $5 billion in fraudulent phone charges and victimizes millions of people each year.
	It happens so quickly that criminals, called "shoulder surfers" - by watching or listening as calling card customers enter their calling card numbers and PINs on pay phones - can steal the codes and put them into use just seconds later.

But telephone fraud is more than just "shoulder surfing." It can happen in your own home. Fraudulent third-party charges and collect calls, deceptive investment schemes or phony vacation packages sold over the phone, and merchants who take your calling card number when requesting identification are among the many ways these criminals can outfox you.

But the battle against phone fraud cannot be won without your help. As a calling card or residential or business customer, you are the best preventive measure against this crime.

NOW TO OUTFOX PHONE FRAUD

When using your calling card...

• Make sure no one sees you key in your calling card number or overhears you stating it to the operator.
  • Block the view of the keypad and speak directly into the phone in a quiet voice. When possible, use a phone that reads your card automatically.

• Do not use your phone card as an identification card.
  • Use your driver's license or some other form of ID when dealing with merchants, telemarketers and other "salespeople."

• Beware of individuals who call you at home requesting calling card verification.
  • Bell Atlantic and other telephone companies will never call you to ask for your card number over the phone. Only when you make a call through an operator should you give out your calling card number. Report a lost or stolen card immediately.

• Protect and memorize your calling card and PIN number.
  • Select or change your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to an easily remembered number. If your card already has a PIN on it and you want it removed, contact your local telephone company business office.

When at home...

• Don't accept third party or collect calls that are suspicious or from someone you do not know
  • When you accept, you have agreed to pay the charges.

• Telephone companies or law enforcement officials will never ask customers to accept collect or third party calls as part of an investigation
  • Only if you make the call through the operator will a telephone company representative request specific billing information.

• Restrict third-number or collect calls from being made to your home or business
  • Bell Atlantic offers this service, thus preventing fraudulent calls from being billed to your line. Call your local telephone company business office for more details