In an effort to keep our members from becoming victims of identity theft or fraudulent
scams, we will post information to help you combat this growing problem. Please check back
periodically to see the latest information available.
IRS Warns of New Scams Against Taxpayers
The IRS is warning taxpayers about phone and e-mails scams, both tied to the economic stimulus payments and tax season, by fraudsters seeking to acquire taxpayer’s financial institution account numbers and other sensitive data. In one scenario, people have been called by phone and told their account numbers are needed in order to get the stimulus payments. The IRS isn’t calling or e-mailing people for this information but instead relying on information in taxpayer’s tax returns.
People are also receiving an e-mail with a link to a form where recipients are told they must provide information to receive their payments by direct deposit. This information is asked to be provided on taxpayer’s returns so a phone call or e-mail is NOT required by the IRS.
Get Your Free Credit Report
Due to new legislation in the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act) consumers can now get a copy of their credit report from each major credit bureau once a year. It’s
a good idea to check your credit report to be able to spot fraudulent credit and correct any other inaccurate information.
To request your reports, go to www.annualcreditreport.com,
which is the only authorized source for consumers to access their annual credit report online for free. Or, call 877-322-8228. You'll be able to order all three credit reports at one time,
or at different times throughout the year. It's your choice. But, be sure to order from the centralized agency. If you go directly to the
credit reporting agencies, you may be charged unless you fit other criteria for a free report (such as being denied credit).
The credit reports will be mailed to your home with instructions on how to read the reports.
If you need additional help in understanding your credit, we will be happy to help you.
Additional Information for Your Protection
Consumer
Information Fraud Series - an internet tutorial to educate and protect yourself against identity theft, check fraud, credit card fraud and consumer scams.
Identity
Theft - Click on the link to get free information from the FTC on how thieves
steal identities and how you can protect yourself.
Get Your Free
Credit Report - Free reports are
available annually from each of the three major
credit bureaus. Find out how to get yours.
Phishing Scams
- These fraudulent scams take place on the phone
and by e-mail. Learn how they operate and how
to protect yourself.
Credit Bureaus:
If you think you may be a target of
identity theft, please notify at least one of
the credit bureaus to put a fraud alert on your
credit. By calling one of them, a hold will
be put on your credit at each of the 3 bureaus.
You will then be notified and must give express
permission if anyone tries to obtain credit
in your name. These credit bureaus also offer
credit monitoring for a monthly or annual fee.
Equifax
fraud division
800-525-6285
P.O. Box 740250
Atlanta, GA 30374
Experian
fraud division
888-397-3742
P.O. Box 1017
Allen, TX 75013
Trans
Union fraud division
800-680-7289
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92634 |
