8. What to do about: Checks and ATM cards

If the thief stole checks or set up bank accounts, call your bank and ask it to notify the consumer agency ChexSystems. Place a security alert on your ChexSystems file.

If it's your ATM card that was stolen, report it by phone and fill out a fraud affidavit. Get a new card and account number, and create a new password. If you don't report the theft immediately you could be deemed responsible for any fraudulent actions, so call first and then follow up with a written report. The FTC offers more information on electronic banking.