New technology has helped make our lives a little easier — but it has also created new opportunities for fraud and identity theft. The good news is you can protect yourself against these crimes that could steal your money, your credit rating, and even your identity.
If you are a member of BrightStar CU and think you have been a victim of fraud or identity theft, please contact us immediately at 954-486-2728.
Steps to Protect Yourself
- Use caution when sharing personal information. Be sure you know who you're dealing with. BrightStar will never call or email asking you to verify information we already have on file.
- Reconcile account statements promptly. Report discrepancies immediately and store old statements in a secure place.
- Report lost or stolen checks immediately. Store unused or canceled checks in a secure place.
- Watch your mail. If you stop receiving mail unexpectedly, you may be the victim of mail diversion fraud. Contact the post office.
- Don't carry sensitive information in your wallet. Leave Social Security cards at home unless absolutely necessary.
- Destroy pre-approved offers you don't respond to.
- Notify us if you receive suspicious calls inquiring about your BrightStar account information.
- Check your credit report at least once a year. You can request a free copy from annualcreditreport.com.
Credit, Debit & ATM Card Security
- Sign the signature panel on a new card immediately.
- Destroy old cards by cutting them up.
- Keep duplicate cards in a secure place.
- Protect your PINs. Never write your PIN on your card or keep it in the same place.
- Report lost or stolen cards immediately at 888-266-0464.
- When making purchases, make sure you get your card back and that it's really yours.
- Compare receipts against your account statements regularly. Report discrepancies immediately.
- Don't leave your cards, wallet, or purse unattended.
- Don't lend your card to others.
- Be cautious when giving your card number over the phone.
- Keep a list of card numbers and emergency phone numbers in a secure place.
Get Help
Need to Report Fraud?
Contact BrightStar immediately if you suspect fraud or identity theft on your account.