Preventing Identity Theft

• Never keep a copy of PIN numbers or passwords in your wallet or purse!
• Do not use passwords that might be guessed by a friend. Do not use pet names, children's birthdays, maiden names, sports teams, religious words, or any word that might be found in a dictionary.
• Shred unneeded documents that contain personal information. Destroy receipts, credit applications, cancelled checks, and credit offers. Keep records in a secure location.
• Do not submit confidential information through email! Email is inherintly insecure.
• Carefully review your Credit Report annually. Inspect bills and account statements to ensure that there are no unauthorized purchases. Know when your billing cycles occur, and watch for missing mail.
• Do not give out confidential information in response to an unsolicited email or phone call.
• Do not click on links inside an email. They are often disguised to look like a link to a legitimate website, but actually redirect you to a spoofed site.
• If in doubt, verify. A few extra minutes of checking up may save you many months worth of headaches! Don't be afraid to call your bank and ask them if they sent the email or letter.