Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and uses it to open new accounts or initiate transactions in your name. It can easily be confused with fraud.

Thieves may attempt to steal your identity by fraudulently obtaining your personal information and using it to open new accounts or initiate transactions in your name. An identity thief might open new credit cards or bank accounts, forge checks, or even apply for loans. This can cause financial loss or damage your credit, and possibly lead to a lengthy resolution process.

In general, identity theft is more extensive than fraud, which is usually limited to an isolated attempt to steal money from an existing account.

The Federal Trade Commission has created a website that is a one-stop national resource to learn about the crime of identity theft. It provides detailed information to help
you Deter, Detect, and Defend against identity theft. While there are no guarantees about avoiding identity theft, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and minimize the damage if a problem occurs.

City of Raleigh Employees Credit Union will never send email containing attachments, or require customers to send personal information to us via email or pop-up windows. If you encounter a suspicious email, website, or unsolicited pop-up window that claims affiliation with City of Raleigh Employees Credit Union, please report it to us immediately.

The Federal Trade Commission has created a website that will give you more information about SPAM email.

The Federal Trade Commission has created a website for consumers and businesses as a source of information about computer security and safeguarding personal information. All over the site, you’ll see Dewie the e-Turtle. Dewie’s wired, but carries his security shell no matter what he’s doing on the Internet. Even though turtles take their time, Dewie crosses the finish line first because he takes the appropriate steps to avoid a disaster. From time to time, Dewie will post new materials on this site with useful information for computer users, from kids to businesspeople. Check it often for updates.