Identity Theft

If you know or believe you've been a victim of identity theft, contact Ideal CU and any other financial institutions you have a relationship with. We can flag your account and monitor it for suspicious activity. You should also contact the three major credit bureaus to determine if you need to place a freeze on your file, which will help prevent thieves from opening new accounts in your name.

• Equifax: 800-525-6285
• Experian: 888-397-3742
• TransUnion: 800-680-7289

In addition, you may want to:

• File a compliant with the Federal Trade Commission
• File a police report - law enforcement officials can help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime

• Hard to guess: Avoid using easily available information like your mother’s maiden name, birth dates or your phone number. You'll also want to steer clear of consecutive numbers or simple patterns.
• Character length: A strong password will have at least 8 to 10 characters. Be sure to alternate between upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols whenever possible.
• Different login — different password: With so many services, apps, systems and websites to log in to, we get the appeal of having one tried and true password for every situation. Don't do it! Use a unique password for every login you have. Try out a password manager to manage your different passwords across sites.
• Lose the password post-it: Never keep your passwords written down on a post-it or in your notebook. Additionally, avoid keeping passwords in accessible apps like notes or calendars on your phone.

• Check for HTTPS: The "S" at the end stands for "SECURE". This means any information you type into a website with this SSL digital certificate will be encrypted, keeping your data safe from criminals who might try to intercept your entry. You can check for HTTPS in your browser's search bar. Make sure the beginning of the long URL starts with HTTPS. On popular browsers you may also see a padlock icon or the word Secure.
• Verify the URL is correct: Cyber criminals may attempt to create a lookalike website to fool you into entering your information into an otherwise trustworthy source. These lookalike websites often have small variations in spelling. An example would be a website using ideacu instead of idealcu. Notice the "L" is missing.
• Explore your browser's security and privacy settings: Well-known browsers have built-in settings and tools to help keep you safe. Take a look at your settings to see what you're comfortable with and find out how you may be able to start browsing more securely. Find these in your browser under Settings or (Chrome or Edge), Options (Firefox), or Safari (Preferences).
• Determine if an app is safe or not: Although apps outside of popular app stores can be safe, a good rule of thumb would be to stick to stores like iTunes or Google Play. Another thing you can do is simply ask yourself a few questions: What is this app for? Do I really need this app on my device? Was the link I clicked to find this app located on a trusted site or from a trusted source? In just these few steps, you'll have already started safeguarding yourself against potentially malicious or harmful apps.

• Update your privacy settings: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter all have settings to allow you to keep select information and posts/tweets hidden from the public. Ensure the information you share is only viewable by your family, friends and followers you trust. Browse through your current settings to see how you could better protect yourself against social media identity theft.
• Avoid sharing your birthdate: This may not seem like sensitive information, however, cyber criminals may use this in connection to other details such as your full name to begin a search to learn more about you. Once they have enough information it becomes easier for them to target you for identity theft.
• Watch for fake profiles: In some cases, a cyber criminal may create a copy of your profile in an attempt to defraud your family, friends and followers. Search your name periodically to make sure no one is assuming your identity on any social media channels. Additionally, if you ever notice a strange friend request form someone you are already friends with, don't accept the request and alert your friend about the potential fake account — they'll appreciate the heads up!

Try to memorize your PIN number(s). When entering a PIN number at an ATM, make sure nobody is peering over your shoulder.

Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet unless you need it. Never divulge it to telephone solicitors or in response to emails.

Buy a cross-cut shredder and shred all papers including bills, credit card statements, ATM receipts, medical statements and credit card solicitations.

When you dispose of a computer, make sure the data is completely removed. Just deleting the data or reformatting the hard drive is not enough. Use software to make sure that data is destroyed.

Check your statements each month for suspicious activity. Inquire with your financial institution(s) if your statements don’t arrive on time. Take advantage of Ideal CU Digital Banking to review your Ideal CU accounts online 24/7. Ideal CU also offers free eStatements and convenient online access to your recent and past statements.

Don't put bill payments in an unsecure mailbox. Drop your bills at the post office or use Bill Pay within Ideal Digital Banking.

You should review your credit report from the three credit bureaus at least annually. You can get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months.