Identity Theft occurs when someone uses your personal information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. While you can't entirely control whether you will become a victim, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk.

One missing puzzle piece can dramatically change a puzzle's characteristics. The same is true with a person's identity — one bit of personal information is all someone needs to steal your identity.

Please be aware that Gulf Coast Community Federal Credit Union will never ask for confidential information via the internet or email except in response to an inquiry that you initiated.

If you feel you may be the victim of Identity Theft, please contact us immediately. Then, contact your local police department, and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission:

Call: 1-877-IDTHEFT

Onlinewww.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/

Write:

Identity Theft Clearinghouse
Federal Trade Commission
600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20580