Fraud Protection Center
Member security is important to us.
What is identity monitoring or “identity theft protection” service?
Security Products and Services
Plus Checking Suite
Neighbors Plus includes payment card protection, $10,000 in personal identity protection and monthly identity monitoring. Learn more about Plus checking and how it can help you stay secure.
Verified by Visa
Add an extra layer of security to your online shopping experience. Verified by Visa is a free service that protects your Visa credit and check cards with a personal password, giving you reassurance that only you can use your Visa card online.
Free Annual Report
Consumers are entitled to a free annual credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies. See what the Federal Trade Commission says about your free credit reports.
Financial Fitness Blog
Keep up with the latest scams and how to prevent becoming a victim.
What is identity monitoring or “identity theft protection” service?
Identity monitors scan personally identifiable information in credit applications, public records, websites, and other places for any unusual activity that could be signs of identity theft.
Some services may help you correct problems if identity theft occurs. They may also offer identity theft insurance generally covering:
- Certain out-of-pocket losses
- Chat room monitoring
- Public record searches
- Monitoring of black market websites
- Virus protection software
They often include a credit monitoring service that monitors your credit history and provides periodic credit scores.
Prices and services offered by identity monitors vary widely. The cost of identity monitoring services varies from as little as a few dollars a month to over $15 per month.
Tip:
Before signing up for a service, make sure you understand what you’re getting. This is particularly important when you’re offered a “free” service. Before accepting a “free” offer, check for any hidden trial periods, fees or cancellation requirements. Also, check with your local consumer protection agency and State Attorney General’s office to see if complaints have been filed against the company.
You should be aware that free and low-cost services are also available to protect consumers including:
A security freeze.
Putting a security freeze on your credit report will generally prevent new credit from being opened in your name. Just remember that if you put a security freeze on your credit file, you’ll need to unfreeze your file before you can open new accounts in your name.
Each state has its own rules about credit freezes and how much you pay for them. In most states, you can file a security freeze for less than $10, and if you are an identity theft victim, you typically can place a freeze for free.
A fraud alert.
If you believe that you’ve been the victim of identity theft or fraud (or are about to become one), you can place a fraud alert on your credit report. Note that a fraud alert does not prevent a lender from opening credit in your name, but it does require a lender to take certain measures to verify your identity first.
Tip:
You can request a free credit report from a nationwide credit reporting company once every 12 months. By requesting the reports separately, you can monitor your credit files at no cost more frequently throughout the year. Some credit card companies now are providing a credit score on your credit card statement, which is another free way to monitor aspects of your credit.
Tip:
If you have a problem with credit reporting, you can submit a complaint with the CFPB online.
Protecting your Identity
Though it might not seem like it. your identity is one of the most precious things you possess. Thieves who are able to steal your identifying information can pretend to be you, buying things on accounts that you won or under your name. This leaves you with their bills! It can also create problems with your credit reports and scores.
Identifying information is anything that is specifically unique to you, such as your:
- Credit card and bank account numbers
- Driver’s license number
- Date, city, and state of birth
- Social Security number
- Passwords or PIN numbers
Many people think that identity theft happens primarily online, and if you don’t shop online you are safe. The reality is that most identity theft takes place offline. In addition, in over half of the cases of identity theft, the thief is someone that the victim knows. Because of this, it’s important to be cautious with your identifying information – both online and in the real world.
Protect Yourself From ATM Skimming
ATM skimming is not a new form of fraud. However, these types of scams are becoming more and more prevalent at ATMs in gas stations, shopping centers and even financial institutions. Criminals are able to build devices capable of reading your card and capturing sensitive data that can be used to create counterfeit cards. Luckily, Neighbors Federal Credit Union has a number of systems in place to protect our members including 24/7 account monitoring. However, as with any scam, awareness, education and consumer vigilance is the best way to ensure you don’t become a victim.
Here are several ways to protect yourself from ATM skimming:
1. Examine the machine. Be wary of a slot that looks unusual or has visible signs of glue or adhesive tape. Gently push or pull the machine. If it’s not solid, notify the financial institution or authorities.
2. Look for hidden cameras or any signs the PIN pad has been tampered with. Often the criminals are trying to capture your PIN with hidden cameras or digital overlays to record keystrokes. They place small pinhole cameras near the ATM and point them toward the keypad. Or in some instances, the keypad has been tampered with to electronically capture your PIN. Look for components that are temporarily affixed to the machine.
3. Cover the keypad. When using the keypad, cover your hand as you enter your PIN. Additionally, be aware of anyone standing too close.
4. Be aware of your surroundings. Scammers are more likely to target an ATM that is in a high-traffic area. Choose one that is inside a bank or within the sight of a security camera for safety.
5. Get to know your financial institution. Understand the policies and procedures of your bank or credit union. If you see something on an ATM that looks fraudulent, alert the financial institution staff members immediately.
6. Know what’s happening. Review your statement and keep an eye out for anything that seems out of place. Set up alerts in Neighbors FCU’s online banking platform to notify you of certain transactions. Online and mobile banking provide easy access to up-to-date information, helping you report a loss much sooner.
On-going fraud alert
It has come to our attention that some individuals are attempting to exploit our members through fraudulent text messages (SMS) and phone calls, claiming to be representatives of Neighbors Federal Credit Union. These scams often involve requests for sensitive information such as account details, PINs, or personal identification information.
To ensure the safety of your accounts and personal information, please be aware of the following precautions:
Verify the Source
Be cautious of unexpected text messages or calls claiming to be from Neighbors Federal Credit Union. If in doubt, contact our Call Center at 225-819-2178 or our 24/7 Mobile Banking Support.
Use Secure Channels
For any communication with Neighbor Federal Credit Union, use official and secure channels, such as our secure online banking platform or the number for our Call Center on the back of your debit/credit card.
Never Share Personal Information
Neighbors Federal Credit Union will never ask you to provide sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, account numbers, card numbers, or User IDs through text messages or phone calls.
Install Security Software
Keep your mobile devices and computers protected with updated security software to safeguard against potential threats.
Educate Yourself
Stay informed about common scam tactics and be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls.