Protecting Yourself Against Fraud

Community Financial understands the critical importance of keeping your banking information safe and secure. We take extra measures to ensure that your information is protected. In addition, there are steps you can take to help protect your personal information against fraud and identity theft.

The Federal Trade Commission describes identity theft as “the act of stealing your good name to commit fraud.” Unfortunately, attempts to commit identify theft are dangerously common. Personal information such as your address, phone number, driver’s license, social security number, credit card numbers, birth date, and mother’s maiden name should all be protected. Therefore, be extremely careful when giving out this information.

You can help protect yourself by carrying as few credit cards and forms of ID around with you as possible. For example, there is no reason to carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Make a list or photocopies of all information you carry, and store the list or copies in a safe place.

“Keeping photo copies of any cards and documents you carry is smart planning in case you ever lose your wallet,” explains Randy Penner with Community Financial. “If you lose a credit card it is important to notify the credit card issuer immediately to help protect yourself against identity theft.”

Randy Penner,  SVP / Sales & Marketing 
at Community Financial offers tips to 
prevent identity theft.

Also keep in mind that thieves may try to get a hold of your information through dumpster diving. You should always shred documents that contain any personal information, including account numbers, before throwing documents away. This includes unsolicited credit card applications as well.

Email can also put you at risk of identity theft. Be wary of any email messages that ask for personal information. Remember that Community Financial will never call, email, send a text or voice message to request your personal identifying information or account number, PIN, password or card number. Do not provide information to any unsolicited request.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Community Financial at (877) 937-2328. We will be happy to assist you.

Posted by: Community Financial
Community Financial Members Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, full-service financial institution owned and governed by its membership.