We’ve all seen the headlines. Another company has suffered a data breach, and potentially, our personal information is at risk. It’s a scary feeling, but knowing what steps to take can significantly minimize the damage. Your credit union is committed to your financial well-being, and that includes helping you navigate these challenging situations. This post outlines what you should do if you suspect your data has been compromised.
Signs You Might Be Affected:
Sometimes, you’ll receive a notification directly from the company involved in the breach. Other times, the signs are more subtle. Be alert for:
- Unfamiliar transactions: Keep a close eye on your credit card and bank statements for purchases you don’t recognize. Even small, seemingly insignificant transactions can be a red flag.
- Unexpected account activity: Changes to your online accounts, new accounts opened in your name, or denied applications for credit could indicate someone is using your information.
- Phishing attempts: Be wary of emails, texts, or phone calls asking for personal information, especially if they seem suspicious or unexpected. Legitimate companies rarely request sensitive information this way.
- Mail you don’t recognize: Pay attention to the mail you receive. Pre-approved credit offers or solicitations from companies you’ve never interacted with could be a sign your information is circulating.
What to Do Immediately:
If you suspect your data has been compromised, take these steps right away:
- Contact the affected company: If you received a notification about a data breach, follow their instructions. If you suspect a breach but haven’t been notified, contact the company directly.
- Change your passwords: Update your passwords for all online accounts, especially banking, email, and social media. Choose strong, unique passwords for each account. Consider using a password manager to help you keep track.
- Monitor your credit reports: You can monitor your information with Credit Sense right in your Syracuse Fire Department FCU online banking. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) annually. Review these reports carefully for any unauthorized activity. You can stagger these requests throughout the year for ongoing monitoring. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to access your free reports.
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze: If you’re concerned about identity theft, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports. A fraud alert requires creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts. A credit freeze prevents access to your credit report altogether, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. Contact each credit bureau individually to place these alerts or freezes.
- File a police report: If you’ve been the victim of identity theft, file a police report with your local law enforcement. This can be helpful in resolving disputes with creditors.
- Contact your financial institutions: Notify your bank and credit union immediately about the potential breach. We can help you monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and take steps to protect your finances.
How Your Credit Union Can Help:
We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with a data breach. Here’s how your credit union can assist you:
- Account monitoring: We can help you monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and alert you to any potential problems.
- Personalized advice: Our team is available to answer your questions and provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
Staying Vigilant:
Protecting your personal information is an ongoing process. Stay vigilant by:
- Being cautious about sharing personal information online or over the phone.
- Reviewing your financial statements regularly.
- Staying informed about the latest scams and data breaches.
We’re here to support you. If you have any questions or concerns about protecting your personal information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your financial security is our priority.
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