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Tips to Avoid Internet Fraud Together, we can help squash Internet Fraud You've probably noticed that you're spending more and more time on the Internet. From paying bills and checking your credit union account balances, to shopping for holiday or birthday gifts, most of your daily tasks can now easily be performed online. Along with this convenience, comes the increasing concern over falling victim to Internet fraud. Fortunately, there's much you can do to help protect yourself and your identity from Internet criminals. Remember these important tips as you surf the Net: Exercise caution when opening and viewing unsolicited emails. Keep in mind that just by opening unsolicited emails, you run the risk of welcoming computer viruses that can collect personal information about you. If you're unsure of an email's source, the best approach is to simply delete without opening it. Don't respond to emails asking you for personal information. From time to time, our Members report that they've received emails, seemingly from legitimate sources, asking them to validate or submit personal information via email or through a fake website. These sites and emails even go so far as to use logos and colors from legitimate organizations, and can be very convincing. CU SoCal will NEVER send you an email requesting you to verify personal, financial information. If you receive an email that does just that, DO NOT submit your information. And, DO NOT click any links that you find within the email. It's a scam, and your identity could be compromised if you play along. Instead, simply delete the email without responding. If you receive an email from CU SoCal, feel free to contact us, as we'll be happy to verify the authenticity of any credit union communication. Simply call us, toll-free at 866 CU SoCal, or send an email to info@CUSoCal.org. 12-6-2006. We've been alerted that Members are receiving emails offering monetary awards of up to $500 for filling out a survey regarding their financial institution. These messages are identity theft scams and should be immediately deleted. CU SoCal will never solicit emails requesting your credit union user name, password or other personal identity information. Be careful when downloading. When you choose to download a file to see a picture, hear a song or play a game, you could be unwillingly downloading a virus that either corrupts your computer, changes your modem to a foreign telephone number (resulting in expensive phone charges), even gathers personal information for a "Hacker" to steal. Only download files or images from a trusted source, and always make sure you read and understand all user agreements before downloading. Protect your computer. By making sure you're using current anti-virus or firewall security software, your computer will be better able to protect against accidentally downloading harmful files or programs. Make Internet purchases safely. When you're paying for online purchases, always use a credit card. Most credit card purchases are protected. For example, you can dispute unauthorized charges. And, Federal law limits your liability to $50 for charges you didn't make. Be sure to pay close attention to your monthly credit card statements and report anything suspicious immediately. Furthermore, before you make a purchase online, make sure you're buying from a legitimate organization. If you're unsure of the legitimacy of a website, do your best to contact them directly by phone before you make your purchase. Guard yourself. You're your own best defense against Internet fraud and identity theft. Don't share your personal information (Social Security Number, credit union account number or password, birth date, etc.) with any organization unless you have initiated the contact or transaction. The Federal Trade Commission has a phone number available to learn about or report a fraud. Contact them toll-free at 877.FTC.HELP, 877.382.4357. If you're a victim of fraud, please also notify the three major credit-reporting agencies below: Equifax Experian TransUnion
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