Identity Theft Protection
Protect your identity by learning and following these security tips when managing your money.
What to look for and what to do if identity theft happens to you.
Identity theft is a form of fraud that occurs when someone uses your personal information, such as your name, Social Security number, account numbers, or credit card number without your permission or knowledge. It is usually for their own personal gain and/or to commit crimes. Being a victim of identity theft often has serious and long-lasting effects.
Fortunately, there are measures you can take to keep your personal information safe:
- Keep passwords and important account information in a safe spot. Do not give your personal information to any untrustworthy sources or provide it through email or text message.
- Be smart about your personal information when you’re in public. Never leave your electronics (computer, mobile devices, etc) unattended. Be sure to log out of your online or mobile banking after you complete a session. Conceal your PIN when using ATM/ITMs.
- Always use secure and complex passwords or passphrases that contain upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Change your passwords every few weeks and do not use the same password for multiple websites and accounts.
- Pay attention to account activity. Monitor your bank account’s transaction history. If there is anything out of the ordinary, contact your bank immediately. No matter how small the error, there is a possibility that someone could have stolen your personal information to perform the transaction.
- Report any and all suspected identity theft to your bank immediately.
No matter what the specific identity theft situation, identitytheft.gov has recommendations that can help victims of identity theft report and recover from the event.
Contact us we can answer your questions about identity theft and provide you with more information on what you can do to keep yourself safe.