Identity Theft

Protect your credit and your personal information

Identity theft occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge. Whether it’s used to commit fraud or other crimes, identity theft costs time and money and leads to a chain of events that can greatly impact your quality of life. There are ways to protect yourself. Flushing Bank is here to help you.

Deter identity theft

Identity theft can happen when a thief rummages through your trash, phishes electronically, steals your wallet or purse, and more. You can deter identity theft and safeguard your information if you:

• Shred financial documents
• Protect your Social Security number
• Never give out personal information unless you trust who you’re dealing with
• Never click on links in unsolicited emails
• Use firewalls and anti-virus software to protect your devices
• Never use obvious passwords such as your birthdate or mother’s maiden name

Detect identity theft

Monitor your financial accounts and billing statements so that you can spot suspicious activity quickly and easily. Stay alert to these signs that require immediate attention:

• Bills that do not arrive as expected
• Unexpected credit cards or account statements
• Denials of credit for no apparent reason
• Calls or letters about purchases you did not make
• Unfamiliar transactions on your financial statements and accounts

Top theft-detector: Monitoring your credit report

One of the most important steps you can take toward detecting identity theft is monitoring your credit report. You are entitled to one free copy of your credit report every year from each of the national consumer reporting companies - Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. While reviewing your credit report may not prevent identity theft, it can help you spot it. Check your report for:

• Unrecognizable names, accounts, addresses, and Social Security numbers
• Any other fraudulent or suspicious information

Visit AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228 to order your free credit reports each year.

Defend against identity theft

If you come across suspicious activity, notify the bank and credit card companies. For any Flushing Bank accounts, contact your local branch or call 1-800-581-2889. We will work with you to make it right regarding unauthorized transactions or any incorrect reports submitted to credit bureaus.

If you believe you have been a victim of identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov, where the Federal Trade Commission offers checklists and resources on how to set up a recovery plan.

Deter. Detect. Defend.

To learn more about identity theft and how to prevent and defend against it, visit consumer.ftc.gov/features/identity-theft.