Data Breach? Our Top Tips to Protect Your Information!

What is a Data Breach?

A data breach is when personal information such as names, addresses, email accounts, passwords, and/or Social Security numbers are hacked or stolen.

Stolen data may or may not be used by cybercriminals for fraud or identity theft. If your Social Security number or other personal information was compromised in a data breach, it means your information is accessible to cybercriminals, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they will use it.

While you can’t stop theft from happening, you can take proactive steps to protect your identity and accounts.

What to Do Now

We understand that news of a cyberattack or data breach can be very upsetting and feel like a violation of privacy. We want you to have all the information needed so you feel empowered to take action today and protect yourself moving forward.

Here are some next steps you can take to check your information, protect your accounts, and prevent theft and fraud.

Monitor Your Credit Reports

One of the best ways to protect your information is to check your credit report regularly. Reviewing your credit report is the best way to spot inaccuracies, unusual activity, and fraud.

Here are a few ways to check your report:

• Log into Credit Sense. As a Blue Chip FCU Member, you can enroll in Credit Sense for FREE. Once enrolled, check your credit report daily through online or mobile banking to see if there are any new inquiries on your TransUnion credit report. If Credit Sense sees any inquiries or new activity on your credit report, we will notify you via email to review the activity. Go to online banking or log into your mobile banking to sign-up for Credit Sense today!

• Review Your Credit Report From All Three Bureaus. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion allow you to get a free copy of your credit report weekly. Contact each bureau to get a copy of your credit report.

• Set Up 3-Bureau Credit Monitoring. Credit Sense is already monitoring your TransUnion credit report, but for extra protection, consider enrolling in a paid service to monitor all three credit bureaus at once. Several vendors offer a 3-bureau credit monitoring service.

Set Up Fraud Alerts

A fraud alert is a note added to your credit file that you may be, or have potentially been, a victim of identity theft. It can be a good option if you’re concerned about identity theft but don’t want to limit a lender’s access to your credit report.

Contact TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax to set up and remove alerts.

Check Statements

Monitor your credit card, investment accounts, and credit union/banking statements for suspicious activity, unexpected charges, or unauthorized transactions. Continue to be vigilant about checking your statements and keep an eye out for irregularities.

What Can I Do if My Social Security Number is Stolen?

If you think your Social Security number has been stolen, contact the Federal Trade Commission and the Internal Revenue Service immediately.

File a Claim with the Federal Trade Commission

To file a claim go to identitytheft.gov and report the incident. You’ll receive a personal recovery plan that walks you through steps to protect yourself and recover your identity. You can also call the FTC at 1-877-438-4337.

Contact the IRS

If your Social Security number has been stolen, contact the Internal Revenue Service. They can help prevent cyber thieves from using your SSN to file a fraudulent tax return or receive a tax refund. For more information visit Identity Theft Central at irs.gov.

Bottom Line

No one knows when a cyber attack or data breach will occur. The best way to protect yourself and your family is to be mindful of your online presence, proactively monitor your accounts, and set up alerts for additional security. Cybercriminals will be vigilant in their efforts to steal and defraud. Staying ahead of them by being prepared secures your data and gives you the peace of mind you need.

As a member of Blue Chip FCU, you have FREE access to our credit monitoring program, Credit Sense! Credit Sense allows you to access your credit score, full credit report, credit monitoring, financial tips and education. You can do this anytime and anywhere from your smart phone or computer. The best part… it is super easy to get started! Just log into mobile or online banking to use this FREE service and enroll today! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our expert staff at 1-800-782-2328 or email us at staff@bluechipfcu.org.

Source – Savvy Money – Author: Matthew Mack