Identity Theft
Part of Fire Police City County Federal Credit Union's responsibility to you, our members, is keep you informed about potential threats to your financial privacy. Identity theft, the fastest-growing financial crime, occurs when someone uses another's Social Security number, name, mother's maiden name, or any personally identifiable information to purchase goods or services.
Unfortunately, one of the most frustrating points about identity theft is that it could be happening to you for months, even years, before you find out about it. If you think this type of theft only happens to individuals who shop online, or unknowingly give their credit card number to a thief masquerading as a telemarketer, think again! According to law enforcement officials and postal inspectors, mail theft continues to grow in popularity, putting absolutely everyone at risk - including you!
Mail thieves particularly look for checks, credit cards, financial institution account numbers, incoming or outgoing bills, and other financial information. For example, a thief only needs a pre-approved credit card offer you threw away last week to get the information he needs.
Be proactive against identity thieves. Enroll in IDSafeChoice Plus. The first step to securing yours and your family's identity.
The first step in protecting yourself is awareness. Some ideas on how to help you protect your privacy are outlined below... Just knowing that almost any piece of paper that identifies you and some aspect of your financial life can be of value to someone, can help you behave more responsibly.
If you suspect you've become
a victim of fraudulent activity, take immediate action.
Start
the process of recovery by contacting the following agencies:
| 877-ID THEFT (438-4338) |
||
800-525-6285 |
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888-397-3742 |
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800-680-7289 |
||
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800-435-3093 |
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When you call these agencies, trained counselors provide information on the steps consumers should take to resolve problems and repair damage to their credit records. They may refer certain cases to law enforcement agencies, regulatory agencies, or private entities that can help. Ask each agency to place a "fraud alert" in your file, so lenders and other credit report users will be careful before starting or changing accounts in your name.
Alert any credit card company, or other financial institution that may need to know. Ask to speak with someone in the security or fraud department, and follow up with a letter. If necessary, close old accounts and open new ones, and select new passwords and PINs (personal identification numbers). Your call also may alert the credit union to scams that might be targeting other members.
Also inform local police or authorities where the identity theft occurred. Fill out a police report detailing what happened. Get a copy of the completed report- that can help clear up questions and problems when dealing with creditors and other financial institutions.
