Identity Theft

Fraudsters use a variety of techniques to acquire a victim’s card number. Some of the ways include using high-tech devices known as skimmers to swipe the card so as to collect the pertinent information from the magnetic strip or by using low-tech methods such as copying or obtaining discarded receipts. To protect yourself, consider a few common sense tips:

• Shred all mail that has your personal information, especially credit card offers.
• Never store debit/credit card PINs with the card. Commit them to memory.
• Shred all receipts.
• Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for any unauthorized purchases.
• Never share your online account passwords.
• Change your passwords often and use complex passwords, with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols.

If you have been a victim of Identity Theft, take the following steps immediately:

1. Call the Fraud Departments of the three major credit bureaus.
   Experian (TRW): 1-888-397-3742
   TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
   Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
2. Contact the card issuer.
   -Report the fraud immediately by phone and in writing.
   -Close all of the affected accounts.
   -Complete an affidavit indicating fraud has occurred.
   -Keep detailed logs of all contacts you have made.
3. Notify your local police department and obtain copies of all police reports.

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