Security Info

Detecting Fraud

The best way to help detect if you have been a victim of fraud is by monitoring your credit card and account activity.

Monitor your accounts on a regular basis:

The fastest way to detect fraud and identity theft is by using our Online Account access, WEPCO Pal Plus. Click here for more details and to apply.

Among some of the benefits of frequent account monitoring online are:

Over 50 percent of all identity fraud is first discovered by the victim.

The sooner fraud is detected, the lower the financial impact.

Customers who access their accounts online detect identity crime earlier than those who rely on mailed statements.

Learn how to recognize fraud

Below are some tips for recognizing whether you have possibly been a victim of identity theft:

If on your credit report you find that new accounts have been opened but are not yours.
If a bill or statement that you receive in the mail regularly in not delivered.
If unexpected charges appear on your account that are not authorized by you.
If there are charges on your account from unrecognized vendors or merchant.
If posted checks appear on your account significantly out of sequence.
If you receive credit cards that you didn't apply for.
If you are denied credit or are offered less than favorable credit terms for no reason.
If you get calls from creditors or debt collectors regarding merchandise or services that you did not buy.

Check your credit report annually

A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months, from www.annualcreditreport.com.

Eligibility for an annual free credit report is determined by your state of residence based on the rollout schedule set by federal law. Please visit www.annualcreditreport.com to see when a free credit report becomes available in your state.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, has prepared a brochure, Your Access to Free Credit Reports, explaining your rights and how to order a free annual credit report.

For more details from the FTC, go to http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/credit/ycr_free_reports.htm.

Alert a credit bureau with your concerns

If you suspect you might be a victim of identity theft, contact the three major credit bureaus listed below to place a fraud alert on your credit file. You also can order a credit report to identify any unauthorized activity.

Equifax 1.800.525.6285

Experian 1.888.397.3742

Trans Union 1.800.680.7289