Always use caution in providing any personal information and account numbers via Web sites. Identity theft is the fastest growing white-collar crime in the United States. Being reluctant and/or hesitant in a given situation is one of our internal mechanisms to keep us safe. You are wise to question the privacy safeguards associated with this Web site.

Contact your state or local consumer affairs agency or the Better Business Bureau for information about the Web site, and check to make sure that it has a physical (building) address and telephone contact number. If you are unable to get a positive confirmation from third-party sources that your personal information will be secure, pass on the opportunity.

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