Identity Theft and Security

Identity Theft and Security

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Our Commitment to Your Financial Security

We are consistently taking steps to protect the financial well-being of our members and to keep their personal information safe.

  • We diligently monitor accounts and verify suspicious transactions.
  • We take extra precautions to confirm member identity.
  • We provide 24-hour phone support for lost or stolen cards.
  • We offer the ability to change personal identification numbers (PINs) on USSFCU cards at USSFCU ATMs.
  • We do not hold members liable for unauthorized transactions on their USSFCU cards.
  • We adhere to the "Know Your Customer" process to verify our member's identity.

USSFCU will never ask you for your personal information via text or email. 

Personal information includes your credit card number, member number, social security number, date of birth, etc. If you receive a text or email from USSFCU requesting any personal information, do not reply, instead contact us immediately at 800.374.2758.

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What is the "Know Your Customer" Process?

Know Your Customer (KYC) is the process of verifying the identity of a member through an independent and reliable source of documents, data, or information. Different information is requested depending on whether you are an individual member or an entity.

  • For individual members, the Credit Union will obtain the member’s identity information, which includes full name, address, taxpayer identification number (TIN), and date of birth.

  • For non-individual members or entities, the Credit Union will obtain identification data to verify the legal status of the entity, the operating address, and the individuals with ownership or control over the account (i.e., beneficial owners, signatories, or guarantors).

Information is also required regarding the nature of employment/business that the member does or expects to undertake, the purpose of opening the account with the Credit Union, as well as the expected activity on the account.

KYC is to be performed at the time of opening a new account and periodically thereafter. It may be necessary to obtain additional information from existing members based on changes to the account. Similarly, an existing member will be required to provide updated information for new account openings to adhere to the regulatory requirements.

Please note, that the Credit Union is entitled to decline opening an account or discontinue an existing relationship if there is a failure to meet the minimum KYC requirements.

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft: Practical Steps to Take

Identity thieves can do a lot of damage, and their success depends greatly on the steps you take to protect yourself. Considering how much is at stake, making the extra effort is well worth it.

Keep Your Personal Information Private

Social media is a great place to share information. However, that should never apply to personal information. If you share even innocent-sounding data, like your birthday, workplace, or phone number, you give thieves openings to attack your identity. You can protect yourself through strict privacy settings that prevent strangers from seeing personal information. In addition, you should omit personal information in your posts and tweets. Once that information is out there, you can never erase it.

Limit Your Digital Footprint

That footprint includes items such as usernames, online searches, purchasing behavior, and electronic transactions. Protective steps you can take include deleting old accounts, browsing incognito, and removing yourself from data collection sites, which is something you can hire a service to do. Consider using a virtual public network (VPN) to protect your privacy as you surf the web and/or share files. When shopping online, use temporary virtual credit card numbers (available from card issuers or third-party services) to reduce your exposure to fraud.

Avoid Risky Behavior

This starts with using different passwords for different accounts. Keep all your passwords in a secure online vault so that you don’t have to remember them and change your passwords often. Never click on an unexpected email link, even if it looks safe, as doing so exposes you to a phishing attack. Instead, contact the email party by going to the supposed website through your browser. Never type your password or user ID into an unfamiliar sign-in screen.

Monitor Your Credit Reports

The credit reports maintained by the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) are available for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. By reviewing your reports, you can spot suspicious activity or unfamiliar accounts that indicate possible identity theft. Immediately dispute any mistaken data by directly contacting the credit bureau. Also, set up your financial accounts to provide fraud alerts in real time. Consider subscribing to a protection service to help prevent and repair identity theft.

Be Observant when Withdrawing Money from ATMs

Look for worn-down parts and malfunctioning screens. These may indicate the presence of a card skimmer. Contact us if you think you have used a compromised ATM.

Monitor Your Checking and Savings Accounts

Use mobile banking and check your accounts frequently. Sign up for alerts that instantly notify you of transactions.

Safeguard Your Username and Password

Never share your username and password. Change your passwords every 30-60 days especially if you are using third-party aggregators such as Mint, Quicken, or Acorn.

Be Mindful of Your Wi-Fi Connection

Never log in to your account through a public or unsecured connection.

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If you suspect that your personal information is being misused, navigate to IdentityTheft.gov, the centralized hub established by the federal government for reporting and rebounding from identity theft. This platform offers comprehensive guidance, featuring step-by-step instructions and valuable resources such as easily printable checklists and sample letters.

Enhance Your Digital Security with Our Educational Videos

At USSFCU, we are dedicated to helping you protect your personal and financial information. Explore our series of security videos to learn valuable tips and strategies for staying safe online.

Blocking Mobile Attacks  Protecting Yourself From Data Breaches   Internet Safety

 

The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of third-party information. 

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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