Our Security Spotlight features information about current scams, provides tips to protect yourself from fraud attacks, and offers steps you should take should you fall victim to fraud.

• Equifax settlement - In September of 2017, 147 million people were affected by a data breach that happened at Equifax. Recently, Equifax and the Federal Trade Commission have agreed to a global settlement that includes up to $425 million dollars. People affected by the breach are eligible to file a claim for free credit monitoring services for 12 months. If someone affected by the breach decides to opt-out of this offer, they may still be entitled to a cash settlement of up to $125. Impacted customers may also be eligible for additional remuneration based on damages. Click here to read the full details of the Equifax settlement process and how to file a personal claim.
  

• Capital One data breach - Between March 22 and 23, 2019, a hacker managed to expose a vulnerability in Capital One's system and gained access to more than 100 million customer accounts and credit card applications dating back to 2005. Capital One reported that of the 100 million customers, 140,000 had their social security numbers stolen, and roughly 80,000 had their linked bank account numbers compromised. At this time, the individual responsible for the hack has been arrested and charged, but the investigation is on-going as law enforcement continues to work to understand how extensive the damage is. To read the full statement from Capital One, click here.
  

• IRS phone scam continues with new variation - A new twist to the IRS impersonation phone scam has cropped up. This time around criminals are making fake calls claiming to be from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), which is an independent organization within the IRS. The biggest change to the scam is the phone calls are originating from spoofed numbers directly tied to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service offices based in Houston or Brooklyn, leading the number to appear more authentic. As with most cases, the scammers will request personal information as well as asking for a payment to be made with threats of prosecution if you refuse. Remember, the IRS will NEVER call to demand payment, threaten prosecution, or ask for personal information over the phone, or call about an unexpected refund. For the complete story, click here.
  

1. Sign up for credit monitoring services - There are multiple companies and services that monitor for fraud on your account(s) regularly. Some of these services may cost a little money, but ensuring your information is secure and that your data hasn't been compromised is well worth the extra expense. And remember, if you were a victim of the Equifax breach, you can get up to 12 months of free credit monitoring service. Click here to see if you are eligible.
   
   Astera also offers credit monitoring with Kasasa Protect. Receive credit reporting, monthly credit score, dark web monitoring and more, with our comprehensive identity fraud protection and restoration solution service. To learn more about Kasasa Protect, click here.
   
   
2. Consider putting a freeze on your credit report - Placing a credit freeze on your credit report can prevent someone who has gotten access to your personal information illegally from using it for malicious purposes. If you decide to apply for a credit card or loan, you can always temporarily unlock your account and then securely freeze it again afterwards. For more information click here.
   
   
3. Check your credit report annually - www.annualcreditreport.com is a free way to check your credit report without it affecting your fico score. Once a year you can check each of the 3 major credit bureaus for a summary of your credit. If you spread this out and do one report every 4 months, you can stay on top of any potential credit taken out without your permission should your information be exposed from data breaches. 
   
   
4. Call immediately if you suspect you're a victim of fraud - Should you fall victim to a scam or fraud, one of the first steps to follow is contact the proper authorities along with your financial institution(s) to make them aware. Your accounts will be shut down and precautionary steps will be taken to prevent against future loss.

CardNav gives you real-time control over your debit cards through your smartphone or tablet. It also adds another level of security to your cards by letting you decide how and when they can be used, and alerting you when any types of transactions you specify take place. You can even use CardNav to set personal spending limits that help you stay within your budget goals.

• Turn cards on or off in seconds
• Use GPS to restrict transactions to businesses within a designated area
• Limit card use to specific merchants or purchases
• Receive real-time, in app alerts that let you stop unauthorized purchases before they're complete
• Receive alerts when you're getting close to any personal spending limit you've set

Download the CardNav app and gain a new level of security and control over your money today!

If you'd like more information about Astera's security services, call us at 800.323.0048, stop into any branch to speak with a member service representative, or visit us at www.AsteraCU.com.