You can fight identity theft

Here’s how: • Never provide personal financial information, including your Social Security number, account numbers or passwords over the phone or the Internet, if you did not initiate the contact. • Never click on the link provided in an e-mail you think is fraudulent. In addition to stealing your personal information, the link may contain a virus that can contaminate your computer. • Do not be intimidated by an e-mail or caller who suggests dire consequences if you do not immediately provide or verify financial information. • If you are unsure whether a contact is legitimate, go to the company’s Website by typing in the site address or using a page you have previously book marked, instead of using a link provided by the e-mail. • If you fall victim to identity theft, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution. Place fraud alerts on your credit files. Monitor your credit files and account statements closely. • Report suspicious e-mails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/ edu/microsites/idtheft/, or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). To learn more about keeping your money safe, visit the http://www.mymoney.gov/scams. shtml Website. This article was used from NCUA.GOV