ECU Fraud Talks: Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone illegally uses your personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or online login credentials, to impersonate you. This can lead to fraudulent account openings, unauthorized loans, or attempts to access your money.

It can also involve misuse of your existing accounts, including unauthorized transactions, forged checks, or stolen debit and credit card information.

If identity theft happens, acting quickly and using the right resources can help limit damage and restore control of your finances.

How to Protect Yourself

Adopting a few simple habits can significantly reduce your risk:

• Carry only essential identification in your wallet
• Shred documents containing personal or financial information
• Use secure websites (look for “https”) when entering sensitive data
• Never share account information or passwords
• Store checks and financial documents in a secure location
• Monitor your bank and credit card statements regularly
• Report lost or stolen cards immediately

Consistent account monitoring is one of the most effective ways to detect fraud early.

What to Do If You Suspect Identity Theft

If you believe your personal information has been used without permission, take action right away:

• Contact your financial institution
• Change passwords for banking, email, and other important accounts
• Check your credit reports for unfamiliar activity
• If a device may be compromised, stop using it until it’s inspected
• File a police report if physical items (wallet, phone, documents) were stolen

You can also report identity theft and get a recovery plan from the Federal Trade Commission.

What to Do If You See a Suspicious Transaction

If you notice a transaction you don’t recognize:

• Contact your financial institution immediately
• Request an investigation
• Continue monitoring your accounts for additional activity

Quick action improves the chances of stopping fraud and recovering funds.

Monitor and Protect Your Credit

Keeping an eye on your credit is essential for catching identity theft early.

Request your free credit reports at:
https://www.annualcreditreport.com

You can also review reports directly through the three major credit bureaus:

• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

Consider placing a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

Additional Protection Tips

Take extra steps to strengthen your protection:

Opt Out of Pre-Approved Offers
Reduce the risk of stolen mail being used for fraud:
https://www.optoutprescreen.com

Watch for Tax Fraud
File your taxes early to prevent fraudulent returns using your Social Security number

Monitor for Unauthorized Bank Accounts
Request a report from ChexSystems.

Reporting Identity Theft or Fraud

You may need to report identity theft to multiple organizations:

• Federal Trade Commission(recovery and reporting)
• Internet Crime Complaint Center (online scams)

When to Contact Your Financial Institution

Reach out immediately if:

• You notice unfamiliar transactions
• A loan or account appears on your credit report that you didn’t open
• Your wallet, phone, or mail was stolen
• You shared your online banking credentials

Your financial institution can help secure your accounts, investigate fraud, and guide you through recovery.