ID Theft Protection

The U.S. Treasury has released a new DVD that provides information on how to recognize identity theft, how to protect yourself from it, and what you should do if you fall victim.

 

Credit union members can order their free DVD: Identity Theft: Outsmarting the Crooks online at www.pueblo.gsa.gov (item #635N), or by telephone: 1.888.8.PUEBLO, or in writing to: FCIC – 06A, P.O. Box 100, Pueblo, Colorado, 81002.

 

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You're Not Always Caught in the Web…

Surprisingly, the Internet is not the usual avenue for identity theft. E-Commerce Times reports that dumpster diving and workplace record retrieval remain the most common methods of identity theft. Even so, MCCU recommends shopping only with online merchants who encrypt your personal financial information for secure online transmission.

 

Prevention Tips

• Never carry all your identifying information with you. Don't carry your social security number and birth certificate unless absolutely necessary.

• Keep a list of your credit cards, account numbers and expiration dates in a secure place - NOT your wallet or purse.

• Memorize your personal identification number (PIN) for your ATM card. NEVER write it down on the card or carry it with you.

• Don't give your credit card number or other personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call.

• Shred all financial documents before discarding them.

• Verify your credit report regularly with the three major credit-reporting bureaus. If you find errors, notify them immediately.

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In an attempt to address the rising cyber crime threat, the FTC (Federal Trade Commission ) has unveiled an online tool designed to help consumers avoid becoming victims of Internet scams.

 

At the website - www.onguardonline.gov - consumers can take interactive quizzes designed to enlighten them about identity theft, phishing, spam and online-shopping scams. If the user selects a wrong answer, the program explains why that particular misconception about Internet security can lead to trouble.

 

Elsewhere on the site, consumers can find detailed guidance on how to monitor their credit histories, use effective passwords and recover from identity theft.

 

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