Identity theft is a continously growing problem. Scammers that obtain your Social Security Number, credit card number, or other personal information can wreak havoc on your credit by commiting fraud and theft. Protect yourself by following these guidelines:
- Don't give out numbers, logins, or passwords.
- Secure your documents. Your account statements, bills and other correspondence with personal information can be a treasure trove for identity thieves.
- Check your credit report once or twice a year. Beyond keeping up with your credit health, your credit report is an easy way to detect any illicit activity done in your name.
- Pay close attention to all of your statements and verify that account information is correct. You can use Online Banking to keep current on your account activity.
- Watch for unexplained interruptions in your mail service. If you are not receiving your mail as you should, call your local post office and ensure that your address is current and has not been changed without your consent.
- Don't be fooled by "phishing" e-mails. The NCUA (and other credit union orgainzations) have reported being targets of "phishing" emails or spoofed websites. Credit unions and credit union organizations do not solicit personal and/or private information via email. Should you be a victim of an illegal phishing message, do not open, but delete the email. You may report the incident to your IT department and/or the Internet Fraud Complaint Center at http://www.ifccfbi.gov
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