Lower the Risk of Identity Theft and Fraud

Financial Tip, Security

by Insight Credit Union,

August 26, 2024

This year we have seen some of the biggest, most damaging data breaches in recent history. From huge stores of customers’ personal information getting scraped, stolen and posted online, to reams of medical data covering most people in the United States getting stolen, the worst data breaches of 2024 to date have already surpassed at least 1 billion stolen records and rising.

In our continued efforts to keep you protected and informed, we've put together a few steps you can take to mitigate the risk of identity theft and identity fraud.

Consider Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit File

If you are very concerned about becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft, you may request a “Security Freeze” be placed on your credit file, at no charge. A security freeze prohibits, with certain specific exceptions, the consumer reporting agencies from releasing your credit report or any information from it without your express authorization. You may place a security freeze on your credit report by contacting all three nationwide credit reporting companies at the numbers below and following the stated directions or by sending a request in writing, by mail, to all three credit reporting companies:

Equifax Security Freeze
P.O. Box 105788,
Atlanta, GA 30348-5788
(888)-298-0045

Experian  Security Freeze
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013
(888) 397-3742

TransUnion Security Freeze
P.O. Box 160
Woodlyn, PA 19094
(888) 909-8872

In order to place the security freeze, you’ll need to supply your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number and other personal information. After receiving your freeze request, each credit reporting company will send you a confirmation letter containing a unique PIN (personal identification number) or password. Keep the PIN or password in a safe place. You will need it if you choose to lift the freeze.

Review a Copy of Your Credit Report Frequently

It’s a good idea to review your statements each month to check for fraudulent charges, but you can also request a free copy of your credit report from all three credit agencies once a year. Get your free annual credit reports here, and take a close look at each report. Look for accurate, updated information and any errors, like charges you don’t remember making, or other signs of possible identity theft. If you find any wrongful charges, be sure to dispute them immediately.  

Report Unauthorized Activity

If your personal information has been used to file a false tax return, to open an account or to attempt to open an account in your name or to commit fraud or other crimes against you, you may file a police report in the City in which you currently reside.