Shred Days

No one can guarantee that your identity will not be stolen, but here are some basic steps you can take to protect your privacy:

• Consider a “junk” email address: have one for signing up for mailings or ordering products online. It reduces the odds of your friends getting spam or malicious emails should your email get breeched.
• Monitor your bank statements and credit card statements regularly.
• Monitor your credit score for free through MMFCU’s Online Banking and Mobile app, and review your credit report (at minimum) once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com.
• Review your healthcare insurance benefit statements to assure the charges are for procedures or products you or family members have had. 
• Buy a cross-cut type shredder: shred all financial information such as: bank statements, credit card receipts, pre-approved credit applications, etc.
• Be careful of “Dumpster Diving:” this is still one of the major ways criminals get your information.
• Never provide your financial or credit card account number to anyone unless you have initiated the purchase or phone call. Your financial institution will never ask you for your account number if they called YOU!
• Be watchful when using your PIN number at ATM’s or merchant keypads. 
• Get checks directly deposited into your bank account. (i.e. Social Security, Paychecks)
• Empty your wallet of extras: remove your social security card and credit cards you do not use often. And, carry your birth certificate and passport only when necessary.
• Keep an emergency list of all your financial account numbers and credit card accounts in a safe location; such as a safety deposit box at your financial institution.