Cybersecurity Corner | Identity Theft: Shield Your Identity

In today's fast-paced world, our personal information is more vulnerable than ever. Identity theft, the act of stealing someone's personal information and using it for fraudulent purposes, is a growing concern. By understanding the tactics used by identity thieves and implementing effective preventive measures, you can safeguard your identity and protect yourself from potential financial harm.

How Identity Thieves Operate

Identity thieves employ various methods to obtain your sensitive information. They may send fraudulent emails or texts, known as phishing, to trick you into revealing personal details. Additionally, they can exploit data breaches at companies to steal large amounts of personal information. Another tactic involves sifting through your trash, known as dumpster diving, to find discarded bills or statements containing personal information.

Skimming involves using devices to steal credit card information when you swipe your card at a store or ATM. Shoulder surfing, on the other hand, refers to the act of observing individuals as they enter their PIN or other personal information at an ATM or public computer.

Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft

To safeguard your identity, consider the following preventive measures:

• Online Safety
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown senders. Create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security. Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be vulnerable to hacking. Keep your operating system and software up-to-date with the latest security patches.

• Physical Security
  • Shred any documents containing personal information before discarding them. Consider using a PO Box or having your mail delivered to a secure location. Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity.

• Financial Vigilance
  • Consider using a credit monitoring service to track your credit report for any signs of identity theft. A credit freeze can make it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Obtain a free credit report annually to review for any discrepancies.

What to Do If You Become a Victim

If you suspect you've been a victim of identity theft, take immediate action. Place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit report. Report the identity theft to your local law enforcement agency. Notify your bank and credit card companies of the fraudulent activity. Monitor your credit report for any suspicious activity. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for guidance and assistance in recovering from identity theft.

By adopting these proactive measures and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. Remember, protecting your identity is an ongoing process that requires constant attention.

About PrimeTrust Federal Credit Union

PrimeTrust Federal Credit Union’s mission is to provide financial advantage to members in a way that promotes their overall quality of life. PrimeTrust is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned and governed by members. Deposits are used to provide loans to other members, and excess profits are reinvested in better-rates and low- and no-fee services. At PrimeTrust, stories matter. Stories like yours. You have goals for your family and your future, goals that deserve a financial provider who knows more about you than just your credit score. That’s exactly the kind of personal attention you’ll receive at PrimeTrust. As a National Credit Union Association (NCUA) community-charted credit union, PrimeTrust is able to provide membership to any business or person who lives, works, worships, or goes to school in Delaware, Madison, Henry, Hamilton, and Hancock counties.