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How can you avoid identity theft? What are some signs that you may be a victim? What should you do if you suspect you are a victim of Identity theft?

Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone wrongfully obtains and uses your personal information—such as your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number—without your consent, typically for financial gain. Unlike unique identifiers like fingerprints, personal data can easily fall into the wrong hands and be used maliciously. Identity theft victims may suffer financial loss, damaged credit, and the burden of restoring their identity.

Here are key strategies and resources to help protect yourself:

How to Avoid Identity Theft

1. Safeguard Your PINs and Cards

Never write your PIN (Personal Identification Number) on your ATM or credit cards. Carry only the cards you need when leaving your home.

2. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Carefully review all transactions on your bank and credit card statements before paying the bill. Report any suspicious activity immediately. Another thing to be aware of is fake check scams and how to report them. To learn more, visit FTC - How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Fake Check Scams.

3. Shred Sensitive Documents

Shred bank statements, credit card bills, pre-approved credit offers, and any documents with personal financial information before disposing of them. This prevents dumpster divers from stealing your data.

4. Check Your Credit Report Annually

Request a free credit report from each of the major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) annually through AnnualCreditReport.com. Regular checks can help you spot unauthorized accounts or activity early.

5. Watch for Mail Irregularities

If you stop receiving regular mail, check with the local post office to ensure no unauthorized change-of-address requests have been filed.

6. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA (sometimes called Two-Factor Authentication or 2FA) adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts by requiring a second form of verification. Learn more about SCU's approved Duo MFA.

7. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Create strong passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. For more information on SCU's guidance, visit our password advice page. 

Key Signs You May be a Victim of Identity Theft:

  • Unexpected charges appear on your bank or credit card statements—even small ones.

  • Statements show up for accounts or credit cards you didn’t open.

  • New credit or store cards arrive in the mail without your request.

  • Collection notices for unfamiliar debts.

  • Errors on your credit report, such as unknown accounts or credit inquiries.

  • Applications for credit denied despite good credit history.

  • Missing mail or email statements.

What To Do If You Suspect Identity Theft:

1. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Report identity theft and get recovery guidance at identitytheft.gov.

2. Notify the Major Credit Bureaus

Request a fraud alert on your credit reports:

3. Contact Local Law Enforcement

File a police report with your local police department to document the theft.

4. Notify Affected Businesses

Reach out to banks, credit card companies, or businesses where fraudulent transactions occurred.

5. Additional Resource

The Identity Theft Resource Center offers support and guidance. You can also visit the US Department of Justice's Identity Theft page for more information.

Mar 18, 2025