HERE'S HOW:

• Never provide personal financial information, including your Social Security number, account numbers or passwords over the phone or the Internet if you did not initiate the contact.
• Never click on the link provided in an e-mail you think is fraudulent. In addition to stealing your personal information, the link may contain a virus that can contaminate your computer.
• Do not be intimidated by an e-mail or caller who suggests dire consequences if you do not immediately provide or verify financial information.
• If you are unsure whether a contact is legitimate, go to the company’s Website by typing in the site address or using a page you have previously bookmarked, instead of using a link provided by the e-mail.
• If you fall victim to identity theft, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution. Place fraud alerts on your credit files. Monitor your credit files and account statements closely.

Report suspicious e-mails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
Or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).

To learn more about keeping your money safe, visit the http://www.mymoney.gov/scams.shtml Website.

If you disclose sensitive information in a phishing attack, contact one of the three major credit bureaus listed below and discuss whether to place a fraud alert on your file. A fraud alert will help prevent thieves from opening a new account in your name.

Equifax
P.O. Box 740250
Atlanta, GA 30374

Phone: 800-525-6285
www.equifax.com

Experian
P.O. Box 1017
Allen, TX 75013

Phone: 888-397-3742
www.experian.com

TransUnion
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92634

Phone: 800-680-7289
www.transunion.com

A message from the federal bank, credit union and thrift regulatory agencies: Board of Govenors of the Federal Reserve System, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, National Credit Union Administration, Office of the Comptoller of the Currency, Office of Thrift Supervision.