"Phishing," is the practice of sending an e-mail that appears to be from a reputable company that you recognize and do business with, such as Tulsa Metro Federal Credit Union.  The e-mail will typically warn you of a serious problem that requires your immediate attention.  The e-mail will then encourage you to click on a link to go to the institution's "website" in order to update your account information or to provide information for verification purposes: your Social Security Number, account number, PIN or password, credit card information, or verification information such as your mother's maiden name or place or birth.

The goal of phishers is to persuade you to share this sensitive information that can be used to commit fraud or identity theft against you. If you feel the e-mail may be legitimate, please contact the company or financial institution directly through a listed telephone number, but never through the link provided in the e-mail you received. TMFCU will never ask you to verify sensitive or private information in an email. Please be aware that you have already given legitimate companies (like TMFCU) the information they need to do business with you.

ID Theft Defense:

1. Minimize what you carry –especially your social security card.

2. Review your banking and credit card statements regularly and thoroughly.

3. Annually, get a FREE copy of your credit report and review it carefully.  www.annualcreditreport.com

4. Protect your computer with anti-virus and anti-spyware. Make sure your wireless connection is secure.

5. Guard your mail from theft by placing outgoing mail in a USPS drop box. Get a locked mailbox or a P.O. box for incoming mail.

6. Purchase a cross-cut paper shredder for documents and receipts.

7. Practice safe internet shopping by only using  trusted websites.  Look for the BBB OnLine Reliability Seal or the padlock and be cautious about the information you give out.

8. Avoid simple passwords such as birthdates,  your mother’s maiden name or any part of your social security number and periodically change your passwords for extra security.

9. Be careful about the information you give out over the phone.  Never provide personal information unless you are certain you are dealing with a reputable party.

10. Be alert, calm and patient.  Never be pressured into a quick decision regarding your information.

 If you have any questions regarding the legitimacy of an email from TMFCU, contact us at (918) 392-0180 or by email at: info@tmfcu.com