It seems like every time you turn on the news you hear about another case of identity fraud. In fact, last year there were nearly 17 million victims of identity fraud in the U.S. 

Worrying and recovering from identity fraud isn’t only stressful, it can be expensive and time consuming. Wayne Westland Federal Credit Union wants to help take some of that stress out of your life.

HOW WWFCU PROTECTS ITS MEMBERS FROM IDENTITY FRAUD

• Security
  Whenever you access your WWFCU accounts, pay bill, etc., you are operating on a secure website.

• Passwords
  WWFCU has you change your passwords frequently to keep you better protected.

• Privacy
  WWFCU has stringent privacy and security policies to protect your personal information. We meet and exceed federal/state mandates to keep your information safe.

• Card Nav
  Download the app and use it with your WWFCU credit and debit cards. It lets you manage when, how and where your cards are used.

• Protection
  If you have a WWFCU Visa, your identity is protected for FREE. We offer identity theft detection and recovery services, as well as credit monitoring to our members. Don't have our Visa? Contact an MSR today to find out to to qualify for both our Visa and free identity theft protection.

AVOID THESE IDENTITY FRAUD SCAMS -- HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

• Dumpster Diving
  Shred all important documents before throwing them away. That's the best way to stop thieves from taking your bank statements, etc.

• Mail Theft
  Credit card offers, bills and more can be taken right from your mailbox. Collect your mail daily as soon as possible.

• Shoulder Surfing
  Whether you're at the ATM or a store checkout area, make sure no one is looking when you enter your PIN.

• Card Theft
  It may be easier than you think for someone to steal your credit or debit card. The best way to protect yourself? Write See ID instead of signing your name on the back panel of the card.

• Skimming
  Fraudsters install devices on ATMs, gas pumps and other POS machines that record the information from your card when you swipe or insert it. Look before you swipe to make sure the machine has no extra devices on it.

• Pretexting
  A thief has done some initial research and baits you to give sensitive information like an account or social security number. Remember no one should be asking you for this information. Verify who you're sepaking with and then contact the company directly.

• Phishing
  Similar to pretexting, scammers will try to trick you into giving personal information via text or email by clicking on a fraudulent link. Always look at the sender's URL to see if it's legitimate.

• Pharming
  Hackers will direct you to a fake or spoofed website so you'll give up valuable account information. When in doubt, type the company's URL yourself to follow up on any supposed account errors, etc.

• Vishing
  This is basically phone phishing to trick you into giving personal information. They may use robo-calls or other tactics to obtain the details. Be wary of unsolicitied phone calls.

• Malware
  Scammers will send you a link via text or email. When you click on it, you'll unknowingly download a program that will mine your files for sensitive information.

  WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT IDENTITY THEFT

  • Stay Vigilant
    Stay up-to-date on the latest scams and keep your private information private.

  • Use Encryption
    Protect your browser and online transactions by using encryption software that securely scrambles your online information.

  • Protect Passwords
    Use complex phrases for passwords and never use the same one twice. Use a special app or program to keep track of your passwords, don't write them down for thieves to find.

  • Stop Sharing
    Many of us share way too much information on social media these days. This can help fraudsters access your accounts. Network with just a small group of friends and limit the details you share.

  • Avoid Wi-Fi
    It's tempting to use Wi-Fi when out shopping or eating. Don't do it. You're basically opening the door for identity thieves to access your sensitive information.

    • Contact the Three Credit Reporting Agencies

      Equifax:	(800)525-6285 equifax.com
      Experian:	(800)397-3742 experian.com
      TransUnion:	(800)680-7289 transunion.com

    • Check your Credit Report Frequently
      You're allowed one free credit report per year from each of the major reporting agencies at annualcreditreport.com. Review it for errors or fraud.