MADISON, Wis. – CUNA Mutual Group has kicked identity theft protection up a notch with the release of its new program, Identity Guard CreditProtectX3. Developed through a joint effort with Intersections Inc., the program is a proactive risk management solution that provides members with daily three-bureau credit monitoring to detect early warning signs of identity theft and provide expert assistance in recovering from the crime. In addition, Identity Guard provides $20,000 in insurance to help cover expenses related to the recovery, including: * Lost wages as a result of missed work to deal with the fraud; * Attorney fees related to lawsuits, civil judgments or challenges to information in a credit file; * Loan application fees for reapplying for loans declined due to erroneous credit information; * Notary and certified mailing costs and long distance phone charges associated with re-establishing credit. "Identity Guard is a multi-layered net of protection for members. It monitors three major credit bureaus every business day for signs of ID theft, and then promptly notifies a member if any unusual activity is detected," said Bill Jolicoeur, vice president of CUNA Mutual's individual property and casualty products. "In addition, Identity Guard educates members on how to spot inaccuracies and fraud on their credit report, the first line of defense against identity theft." The initial program launch date is set for January through a pilot involving 166 credit unions and 1.5 million members. Members will receive information on protection via MemberCONNECT, CUNA Mutual's turnkey direct response program. "Not only is there a need for this type of protection in the marketplace, many consumers believe it is a responsibility of their financial institution to help protect their identities. Identity Guard will further strengthen a credit union's relationship with its members and solidify its reputation as a trusted financial institution," said Jolicoeur.