Identity theft recovery: Why it matters
Identity theft occurs when an unauthorized person uses your personal identifying information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, credit card or bank account information to assume your identity in order to commit fraud or other criminal acts. This can include using your personal information to open new accounts, make purchases, or get a tax refund.
How can your identity be stolen?
Identity is compromised when your personal information is lost or stolen, or falls into the hands of hackers, thieves, or other people who commit crimes using the personal information they’ve found. Identity is also compromised when someone intentionally accesses and uses your personal information without your permission.
One of the most common types of identity theft happens when there’s a data breach at a retailer or business where you’ve used your credit card, and your personal information is accessed.
How to prevent identity theft
There are several ways to protect yourself from identity theft
- Never share your personal information, particularly your credit union account numbers and passwords.
- Keep your Social Security card and number in a safe place in your home and do not carry your card with you.
- Shred bills, bank and credit card statements, medical information, and personal records containing account information, before placing them in the trash.
- Don’t leave mail sitting in your mailbox, where thieves could access it.
- Don’t share information with unknown sources
- Be vigilant when using your ATM debit and credit cards.
Why does identity theft recovery matter?
When identity theft occurs, time is a critical factor in mitigating loss. The sooner you can begin the recovery process the better. That’s where Credit Union of Southern California can help. When you open a CU SoCal Rewards Checking account
In addition to offering a monthly dividend on average account balances, CU SoCal’s Rewards Checking Account provides reward points on debit card purchases and fully-managed identity theft recovery services at no additional cost for Rewards Checking account holders.
Should you become a victim of any identity theft activity, CU SoCal’s identity restoration services (provided through nxg|PROTECT) can help. A dedicated Identity Theft Recovery Advocate will assist you with research and restoration of your identity and address the reversal of records created by fraud, with the goal of returning an identity to pre breach status.
These protection services will also be extended to qualified members in the household to ensure partners, children, and dependent relatives keep their identities safe.
Interested in opening a CU SoCal Rewards Checking Account? Apply online or at your nearest CU SoCal branch. You can also apply over the phone by calling 866.287.6225.
