Equip yourself with tools to prevent identity theft and fraud.

Protecting your private information is a top priority for UMCU. Identity theft comes in many forms and rapid advancements in technology make it increasingly hard to detect scams. To keep your information secure, it's essential that you learn about various types of scams. You also need to be aware of the steps that should be taken if you or a family member become a possible identity theft victim.

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information to make purchases, access financial accounts, apply for loans, open new credit cards, receive medical care and more. Identity thieves often get started by gaining access to your Social Security number, account credentials, credit card information, etc. Here are some identity theft prevention tips:
  • Know who you are communicating with if someone asks for your personal information
  • Never open email attachments from unknown sources
  • Never share account information without verifying the source who is requesting it
  • Monitor your accounts
  • Safeguard recycling bins and outgoing mail
  • Check your credit report at least annually
  • Use online bill-pay services and electronic account statements. Your personal information is safer in online banking than in a mailbox.
he Federal Trade Commission is the government's leading fraud fighter. You can get more information on identity theft, common scams and how to fight back by visiting the FTC site and reading the agency's blog.