As our lives become more digital, it is critical to maintain a high degree of privacy. Identity thieves are always looking for ways to steal your good name. In fact, 9.9 million people last year were victims of identity theft. Are you protecting your identity and financial information? These resources can help you safeguard your information.

What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone wrongfully obtains and uses your personal information to commit fraud or other crimes. A crook only needs your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, or mother’s maiden name to steal your identity. 

How Do I Avoid Identity Theft?
Protect and control your personal information. Identity thieves are not dumb. They are creative crooks that are always plotting new ways to get your personal information. These con artists will try to steal your identity online, through your mail, over the telephone, through your trash, and anyway they can. Be alert at all times. Don’t let these thieves steal your good name.

What Should I Do If I'm a Victim of Identity Theft?

1. Notify the Credit Union immediately.
2. Contact the fraud departments of any of the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file.

	Equifax
	Experian
	TransUnion

3. File a police report. Make a copy of the report and submit it to your creditors and any others that need proof of the crime.
 
4. File your complaint online with the Federal Trade Commission or call their ID Theft hotline at 1-877-IDTHEFT.

Free Identity Theft Booklet
Congressional FCU also offers a free victim booklet for our members. Contact us for your copy of "How to Avoid Identity Theft - A Guide for Victims" or download it here (2,882 KB).