* Ask your employees and members to watch for newspaper advertisements for imposter credit unions. * If an advertisement is noted, contact the real credit union at its telephone number of record. * If you see an advertisement for a credit union that looks suspicious, contact your state regulator. * Maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date domain portfolio. * Register key brand names as well as the credit union's name. * Register names under all relevant domain names, including all top-level domains and country codes. * Use reputable domain name registration authority. Use tools provided by a reputable internet brand protection service to conduct regular comprehensive Internet monitoring. * Monitor all Web links to ensure proper authorization, content, privacy, and security. * Ensure that appropriate written contracts are in place with all authorized third parties. * Ensure that proper disclosure notices are posted on the credit union's Web site. *Take appropriate action against cybersquatters and other unauthorized operators to ensure continued control of domain names and Web linking relationships. * If you can determine the ISP hosting the imposter/spoofed Web site, contact the Internet service provider to request that the Web site be immediately disabled and all information pertaining to it be preserved for law enforcement. * If you have been victimized by spoofed email or Web site, you should contact your local law enforcement, US Postal Inspector, or FBI. * Also, if spoofed by email or Web site, file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Fraud Complaint Center at www.IFCCFBI.gov. Source: CUNA Mutual Protection Solutions Group Risk Management Specialist Vince Wagner