Identity Theft Prevention: Prevent Your Identity From Being Stolen
Shield yourself from the growing identity theft epidemic—learn to recognize imposters, secure your personal information properly, and know exactly what to do if thieves strike, with resources to monitor and protect your identity.
Recognize Identity Thieves
They Call, Email, and Text—But They're Not Who They Claim
Identity thieves are master impersonators, posing as banks, government agencies, or trusted companies to steal your information. Understanding their tactics is your first defense. Remember: Legitimate organizations already have your information and won't call asking for it. When someone requests your personal data, that's your red flag.
Banks never call asking for PINs or passwords.
Government agencies don't demand immediate payment.
Aggressive tactics signal scam attempts.
Threats of arrest are always fake.
Hang up and call back using known numbers.
Trust your instincts—legitimate callers don't pressure.
Essential Protection Strategies
Daily Habits That Keep Thieves Away
Identity protection isn't a one-time action—it's a lifestyle of smart habits that make you a hard target. These proven strategies create multiple barriers between thieves and your identity. Implement them all for comprehensive protection that works 24/7.
Use complex passwords
With special characters.
Change passwords regularly
Across all accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication
Everywhere possible.
Check credit reports
Annually from all bureaus.
Opt out of prescreening
At 888-567-8688.
Document Security
Your Papers Are Gold to Identity Thieves
Physical documents remain a primary target for identity thieves. From mail theft to dumpster diving, criminals seek paper trails to your identity. Proper document handling eliminates these vulnerabilities while maintaining the records you need for legitimate purposes.
Copy all IDs
And store securely.
Lock originals
In safe locations.
Never carry SSN card
In your wallet.
Shred sensitive documents
Before disposal.
Secure your mailbox
Or use post office.
Credit Monitoring Essentials
Your Credit Report Is Your Early Warning System
Regular credit monitoring catches identity theft early, before major damage occurs. Federal law entitles you to free annual reports from each bureau—use them. Stagger requests throughout the year for continuous monitoring, and know what to look for when reviewing.
Free annual reports
Check all three bureaus
— Experian, Equifax, TransUnion.
Look for unknown accounts
Or inquiries.
Verify all addresses
And employment info.
Dispute errors immediately
In writing.
If You Become a Victim
Swift Action Minimizes Damage
Despite precautions, identity theft can still occur. Your response speed determines the impact. These steps, taken immediately, can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major financial devastation. Don't delay—every hour counts.
Contact FTC
At 877-IDTHEFT (438-4338).
File police report
For official documentation.
Call SSA
At 800-772-1213 if SSN compromised.
Freeze credit
With all three bureaus.
Document everything
For dispute processes.
Your Identity Requires Active Defense
Identity theft isn't a matter of if, but when thieves will target you. By implementing these protection strategies, monitoring your credit regularly, and knowing how to respond quickly, you transform from easy victim to hardened target. Start today—because thieves started yesterday.
Call Our Fraud Hotline: 800-326-3328
Talk to a DFCU specialist any time, day or night. We can help you report fraud, secure your accounts, and walk you through next steps.
DFCU never requests personal information via phone/email/text. Report ID theft to FTC: 877-IDTHEFT. Free credit reports at annualcreditreport.com. Opt out of prescreening: 888-567-8688. Shred documents, secure mail, use complex passwords. Visit idtheftcenter.org for resources.