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Identity Theft Awareness Week: Small Steps That Make a Big Difference

Cybercriminals are sliding into your messages — here’s how to stay safe. 

Identity theft doesn’t always start with a major breach or a dramatic hack. More often, it begins quietly — a stolen password, a leaked Social Security number, or a piece of personal information falling into the wrong hands. That’s why Identity Theft Awareness Week matters. It’s a reminder that protecting your identity is an ongoing habit, not a one-time task. 

At UMe, we spend a lot of time sharing tips about scams, fraud, and ways to protect yourself — not to worry U, but to empower U. When U know what to look for, it’s easier to spot issues early and avoid bigger headaches down the road. Awareness is one of the simplest and strongest tools we have. 

 

1. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Anywhere it’s available — email, banking apps, social media — turn it on.
Even if someone gets your password, MFA can stop them cold.

Pro tip: App-based authentication is stronger than text messages when possible.

2. Lock Down Your Email First

Your email is the key to the kingdom. If a scammer gets into your email, they can reset passwords for almost everything else.

  • Use a strong, unique password
  • Enable MFA
  • Check account recovery emails and phone numbers

3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords (Yes, really)

Reusing passwords is one of the biggest risks.

  • Use a password manager
  • Avoid personal info (birthdays, pet names, etc.)
  • Longer beats complicated — aim for passphrases

4. Watch for Phishing (Email, Texts & DMs)

If a message creates urgency, fear, or excitement, pause.

Red flags include:

  • “Your account is locked”
  • “You’ve won a prize”
  • Unexpected job offers or payment requests
  • Requests for info via email or text

When in doubt, go directly to the company’s official website or app — never click the link.

5. Check Your Credit Reports Regularly

Even with a credit freeze, it’s smart to review your credit reports for anything you don’t recognize.

You’re entitled to free reports from all three bureaus at:

  • Experian
  • Equifax
  • TransUnion

(Free weekly access is available through authorized sources.)

6. Protect Your Devices

  • Keep your phone and computer updated
  • Use a screen lock or biometric login
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks (or use a trusted VPN)

Lost phone = potential identity theft if it’s not locked down.

7. Be Careful With Personal Info (Online & Offline)

  • Don’t overshare on social media
  • Shred sensitive documents
  • Think twice before giving out your SSN — ask why it’s needed

8. Set Up Account Alerts

Most banks and credit card companies let you turn on alerts for:

  • New logins
  • Large transactions
  • Changes to personal info

Early detection = less damage.

9. Trust Your Gut!

If something feels off, it probably is.
Scammers rely on people feeling rushed or unsure.

10. Lean on Trusted Help

U don’t have to figure this out alone.
UMe Credit Union (hi 👋) is a great resource for:

  • Fraud prevention tips
  • Account monitoring
  • Next steps if something goes wrong

 

Recently, our CIO, Mike Bindman, shared practical guidance on one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft: freezing your credit. 

If you haven’t watched Mike’s video about freezing your credit yet, go watch it right now or read our blog post about it! It breaks down: 

  • Why a credit freeze is such a powerful protection tool 
  • Why it’s completely free (and should never cost you anything) 
  • How freezing your credit can stop fraud before it starts 

A credit freeze helps prevent criminals from opening new accounts in your name — even if they already have your personal information. It doesn’t affect your credit score, and you can lift it temporarily whenever you actually need to apply for credit. 

Identity Theft Awareness Week is the perfect time to take simple, proactive steps that protect your financial future. Start by learning, then take action. 

👉 Watch this video on how to freeze your credit on the UMe Instagram page and share it with everyone U care about. Because looking out for our comm-U-nity is what we do! U matter to Me (to all of us) at UMe. 

Disclaimer: U matter to Me (to all of us) at UMe — and that’s why we do our best to deliver helpful information on our blog. Please note the following: (1) UMe Credit Union works hard to make certain that the information we post here is as accurate as humanly possible. But as you know, information can change and evolve quickly. While we try to update the blog on a regular basis, the content of some older posts may not be correct or up-to-date. (2) Some destinations on the World Wide Web that we link you to will exist on external websites. UMe Credit Union does not officially endorse any connected sites, nor do/did we compensate or get compensated by any entities to be featured in our posts (unless otherwise noted). (3) Everyone’s situation is unique and we advise you to consult with our personal bankers or your finance, tax, or legal professional for advice individualized to you!