CT Labor Department Federal Credit Union

Helpful Tips for Fraud Prevention

Don’t give out personal information, Social Security numbers or account numbers on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you are positive that you know who you are dealing with. Financial institutions, credit card servicers and other legitimate organization will never solicit this type of information by mail or email.

      Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your card in your wallet; don’t write it on a check; don’t use it as all or part of a password.
       Shred financial documents and paperwork containing personal information before discarding them.
        Don’t use obvious passwords, like a birthdates, mother’s maiden name, account number or any part of your Social Security number.
        Never click on links on unsolicited emails; instead, type in a web address that you know. Also, use firewalls, anti-spy ware, and anti-virus software to protect your computer. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.
        Securely store personal information at home, especially if you have roommates or are having repairs or improvements done at your home.
         Request and review free credit reports available annually from each of three credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. To obtain yours, visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
        Place a free “Fraud Alert” on your credit reports if they show fraudulent or suspicious information. A toll-free call to any one of the credit reporting companies is sufficient: Equifax, 1-800-525-6285; Experian, 1-888-397-3742; or TransUnion, 1-800-680-7289.

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