Identity Theft is becoming the fastest growing crime in America as it victimizes both children and adults alike.  Your identity is at risk any time you use a debit, ATM or credit card, receive your statements in the mail, and when using your personal information to purchase something on the internet, however protecting your identity is not as daunting a task as it seems. 

 These are a few suggestions to help you protect your identity:

Know who you’re giving your personal information to and make sure that it’s absolutely necessary (i.e. giving your social security to validate your account)

1. All items containing personal information that needs to be kept should be stored in a safe place.  All other items should be shredded for disposal (i.e. account statements, credit card receipts and applications, check copy, etc…)
2. Review your credit union statements to make sure there are no ‘suspicious’ transactions on your account.
3. Check your credit report to make sure your information is correct.  The top three credit reporting companies are Equifax (800-685-1111 or equifax.com), Experian (888-397-3742 or experian.com), TransUnion (800-888-4213 or transunion.com).  The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act) of 2003 requires that these major credit bureaus are to provide, upon request, one credit report each year.  For more information visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228).

A receipt is no longer the only way to steal one’s identity.  Because of the use of the internet is increasing, identity theft over the internet is increasing.  The best rule of thumb is, if an offer sounds too good to be true then it probably is, however the following are a few basic rules that will help protect your identity when using the internet:

1. Always make sure that there is a picture of a padlock in the browser frame and that the website address has an https:// when entering your personal information on a webpage.  This ensures that the website is secure.  By clicking on the padlock in the frame, you can view the sites security certificate.
2. Make sure you have a firewall installed and that your computer is up-to-date.
3. Never fill out personal information via e-mail.
4. Use our online banking and e-statements to monitor transactions on your account.  If you notice any ‘suspicious’ activity, contact the credit union immediately.