Identity Theft

If you are a victim of identity theft, follow these steps.

1. Contact CEFCU as soon as possible.
2. Visit IdentityTheft.gov and follow the step-by-step directions.
3. Then you should:
   • Review account information and credit reports carefully.
   • Close accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently — first by phone, then in writing.
   • Dispute fraudulent transactions.
   • Place a fraud alert on credit reports.
     • When you place a fraud alert with one credit bureau, the others will be notified.
   • Change passwords for online accounts.
   • Notify your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
   • Contact agencies that have issued you any identification, such as the Secretary of State's office concerning your driver's license.

If the theft involves the U.S. Mail, contact the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.

Prevention Tips

Identity theft can take place anywhere/anytime, and these tips can help you keep safe.

Online

• Use CEFCU Online® & Mobile Banking to check your account balances frequently.
• Report even small discrepancies on your account or billing statements.
• Pay bills online with CEFCU Bill Pay or CEFCU Biller Direct.
• Shop only at reputable sites.
• Look for the security indications before completing online transactions. These include a closed lock and https in the address line instead of http.
• Keep your computer and virus software up-to-date.
• Create strong passwords, and make them different for each site.
• Turn on your mobile device’s security features and set them to auto-update.

Offline

• Do not carry confidential information — Social Security card, PIN, etc. — in your purse or wallet.
• Shred personal information before putting it in the garbage.
• Keep personal information confidential, even from family and friends.
• Do not provide account numbers, Social Security numbers, or other personal information if you have not initiated a call.
• Request and review your credit report by visiting annualcreditreport.com.

Utilize the tools and resources available to you:

• Card Management through CEFCU On-Line & Mobile Banking allows you to report your card lost or stolen, temporarily turn your card off if you suspect a fraudulent transaction, and set your own alerts and controls.
  • Find it in your online banking Menu.
• Visit reputable websites for information on protecting your privacy such as ftc.gov or bbb.org.
• Check out CEFCU's Security Center to read more helpful ways to protect you and your information.

Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Think twice before responding to offers that promise too much.

Contact CEFCU for more information, to report a lost or stolen card for a CEFCU account, or to report a suspicious email.