Identity Theft Protection

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your Social Security number or other personal information to open new accounts, make purchases, or even get a tax refund. Anyone can be a victim of identity theft. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.

• Don’t give out personal information, especially your Social Security number, over the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless YOU initiated the contact.
• Store and dispose of your personal information securely.
• Identity thieves patrol neighborhoods searching for outgoing mail. Place outgoing mail, especially envelopes which contain bill payments and personal information, in Postal Service boxes or hand directly to your mail carrier. Never put them in an unlocked residential mailbox.
• Protect your computer and other electronic devices from online criminals.
• Consider signing up for an identity theft protection service. Be sure to weigh the costs and benefits of the services before you enroll.
• Order your free annual credit reports on-line at: www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling (877) 322-8228.

More information can be found by visiting the SC Department of Consumer Affairs website. If you think you’ve been a victim of Identity Theft or discover that your personal information may have been compromised or lost, please notify the credit union right away at 803-978-2101 option 5.

Visit IdentityTheft.gov for more prevention tips and to report identity theft. IdentityTheft.gov is the federal government’s one-stop resource for identity theft victims. It provides valuable information, checklists and sample letters to guide you through the recovery process.