Identity theft
- What is identity theft?
- How can I protect myself from identity theft?
- How is a person's identity stolen?
- What is the Davis+Henderson IDefenseTM service?
- Will I receive phone calls from Desjardins?
1. What is identity theft?
Criminals who successfully steal personal information (credit card number, driver's license number, social insurance number, date of birth, etc.) can defraud their victims of millions of dollars in a very short time.
Armed with this information, identity thieves can access another person's bank account; apply for loans, credit cards and other services; buy vehicles, cell phones and even luxury vacations.
Since the invoices for these transactions are sent to another address, victims won't know that debts are accumulating in their name until collection agencies come knocking.
Identity theft can last for months or even years before being discovered and it can take just as long to sort through the resulting damage.
2. How can I protect myself from identity theft?
When you have to dispose of documents containing personal information (such as account statements), be sure to make the information illegible by shredding the documents.
Nobody - not even a financial institution, police officer Desjardins representative or a merchant - is authorized to ask for your PIN or AccèsD password. This information belongs only to you; keep it confidential. Use them only at ATMs, on AccèsD Internet and when using direct payment at a store.
Never tell, write or e-mail your access codes or passwords to anyone.
Remember that no transaction can be made on your account without your PIN or AccèsD password. Memorize them and reduce the risk of thieves finding this information in your personal business.
3. How is a person's identity stolen?
Identity thieves are very clever. They use several methods to get your information, particularly:
- stealing your personal effects, like your wallet, purse or mail;
- sifting through your garbage to gather enough personal information to steel your identity;
- doing extensive research online by using your name and some small bits of information;
- changing your address without your knowledge in order to get your statements;
- posing as your landlord or employer to manipulate various organizations into sharing your financial data.
In some cases, identity thieves attempt to gain their victim's confidence by presenting themselves as honest and trustworthy. For example, some people may offer their victims money, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, to temporarily use their identity.
Rest assured that a thief will not keep his word. Once he has your cards and other personal documents, he'll use them to steal as much as possible from you.
It is illegal and dangerous to allow another person to use your Desjardins Access Card, VISA Desjardins card or any other piece of ID.
4. What is the Davis+Henderson IDefenseTM service?
IDefenseTM is offered with most personal cheque orders made through Desjardins and ensures that you get the assistance you need in the event of identity theft.
Find out more about the Davis+Henderson IDefenseTM service.
5. Will I receive phone calls from Desjardins?
You might receive a phone call from a telemarketing agent to ensure that your are getting the most out of Desjardins services. Our agents are there to listen to you and have your satisfaction at heart.
To ensure your security, we apply the best practices when it comes to protecting your personal information. Avoid identity theft.
Our telemarketing agents work in collaboration with your caisse and help you get the most out of your products and services.
For more information, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a caisse or branch advisor
