Protection from Identity Theft Guide from MECU

Identity theft can occur when an individual obtains personal information, such as your social security number, date of birth, address, and financial account numbers. Once this information is collected, the thieves will assume or take on your identity, allowing them to purchase items or obtain credit illegally. While identity theft can happen to anyone, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.

KEEP YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION SECURE OFFLINE

When you shop in stores:

Watch your wallet
Be careful with your credit card or debit card
Do not tell anyone your PIN number

KEEP YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION SECURE ONLINE

When you shop online:

Use passwords that people cannot guess
Shop on secure websites. They typically have an address that starts with “https”
Do not put personal information on computers in public spaces, like the library
Install security software on your computer

SECURE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

Keep a close hold on your Social Security number and ask questions before deciding to share it. The decision to share is yours, though sometimes you will have to share your number. Your employer and financial institutions need your SSN for wage and tax reporting purposes. A business may ask for your SSN so they can check your credit when you apply for a loan, rent an apartment, or sign up for utility service. If someone asks you to share your SSN or your child’s, ask:

Why they need it
How it will be used
How they will protect it

KEEP YOUR DEVICES SECURE

Use Security Software
Avoid phishing e-mails
Be wise about Wi-Fi
Lock up your laptop
Read Privacy Policies

CONSIDER ENROLLING IN AN IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION PROGRAM WITH MEMBERS EXCHANGE

Protection plans start as low as $2.50/month for individuals. Take a look at our Identity Theft Protection Plans to see which one would be right for you.