Identity theft can happen to anyone, but there are steps you can take to lessen your exposure to risk. As fraudsters evolve and change their methods, ACU of Texas wants to provide you with some best practices to help you protect yourself.
Steps you can take to protect your identity
- Monitor your credit. As an ACU of Texas member, you have free access to your full credit report through Online Banking. Take advantage of this resource to stay up-to-date on any changes.
- Cut up old or expired credit cards and close any inactive cards or accounts. Even though you aren't using them, the information from these accounts could still be accessed for fraudulent purposes.
- Shred unused personal information, such as credit card applications you receive in the mail.
- Do not give out personal identifying information over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you have initiated contact through a secure channel and are familiar with the business you are dealing with.
- Minimize the identification information and the number of cards you carry in your purse or wallet, in case it is lost, stolen or misplaced. Do not carry your Social Security Card unless you need it.
- Enroll in Online Banking to pay bills online.
- Utilize Online and Mobile Banking, set up Alerts and notify ACU of Texas in the event of any unusual account activity.
- Enroll in eStatements. If you receive paper statements, know when they arrive in the mail and notify ACU of Texas if you do not receive them.
- Do not share your password or PIN number. Do not keep your passwords anywhere that others could easily access.
