Contact the three main credit bureaus to report fraud and request copies of your credit report. Fraud flags and statements will be added to your report saying that all potential creditors should contact you to verify credit applications.
Equifax - to report fraud, call 1-800-525-6285. To request a copy of your credit report, call 1-800-685-1111.
Experian - to report fraud or request a copy of your credit report, call 1-888-397-3742.
TransUnion - to report fraud, call 1-800-680-7289. To request a copy of your credit report, call 1-800-916-8800.
ONLINE FRAUD/PHISHING/PHARMING/SCAMS
Protect your personal information, account numbers, User ID & password, card numbers and PINs. Use caution when providing this information to persons/entities over the Internet.
Keep your password confidential. Change passwords regularly using a combination of numbers, letters and special characters. Avoid using obvious passwords like mother's maiden name, children or pet names, Social Security Number or date of birth.
Install and update anti-virus software regularly. To learn more about computer security, visit the FTC's Information Security web site.
Install anti-spyware on your computer to help prevent your personal and account information from being collected without your knowledge.
Make sure your computer is updated with the most recent patches and security updates.
Never send personal or account information using your personal email. To send this information to us, use the secure messaging feature in Online Banking.
Immediately delete any emails from an unknown source without opening it. If you do open a suspicious email, never click on a link or attachment provided in the email.
Be cautious of emails that warn you that your account may be at risk, fraudulent activity or charges exist on your account or convey a sense of urgency. These often include details of the suspicious activity requesting you respond to the email or 'click here' to visit their site to update your information.
Prior to sending confidential information or financial transactions through a Web site, look for the lock icon on your status bar in the lower right corner. This signifies information is secure during transmission. By double clicking the padlock, you can view the security certificate. Also, look for "https" in the URL of your Web browser when engaging in financial transactions. This indicates scrambling or encryption of the communication.
Be careful when using a computer in a public area where someone could watch you enter your User ID and password.
Review your account statements promptly and report any discrepancies or suspicious transactions immediately.
Clean the hard drive of a computer before disposing of it.
MOBILE BANKING
Be sure to turn off any unused features of your mobile phone in order to minimize its vulnerability to malware and spyware.
Review your phone and its security features. Some devices assist with mobile phone security by having encryption available to help protect your personal data.
Before downloading any program or visiting any link sent to your mobile device, be sure to be aware of the permissions and any access you are giving the sender.
Activate your screen-lock feature after any period of inactivity. Be sure to password protect your mobile device to act as a first layer of protection to your mobile phone device.
Avoid clicking on unknown sources from any communication channel.
Be aware of any applications that can track your geographic location as these can assist criminals in potential stalker and burglary activity.
Ensure your mobile phone security is up-to-date with the latest reputable malware and spyware protection.
CARD FRAUD/SKIMMING
Don't write your PIN number on your card. Memorize it.
Don't use information that may be easily obtained by identity thieves as your PIN, such as last four digits of your Social Security Number, birth date, or address.
Only carry ATM, debit or credit cards that are necessary.
Make a list of ATM, debit, credit cards and bank account numbers, as well as customer service numbers for each. Keep this list in a safe and secure place so you can easily notify necessary companies if your cards are lost or stolen.
Companies like MasterCard® or VISA® will never contact you directly to verify personal or card information, your PIN or to process transactions to protect your account.
Never give your debit or credit card numbers over the phone or Internet unless you have a trusted relationship with the person or company.
Keep your receipts for card purchases and withdrawals. Don't throw them in a public trash container.
Thoroughly review credit card or bank statements upon receipt. Notify the Credit Card company or bank immediately if there is suspicious activity.
When vacationing, notify the bank regarding your plans. Most banks monitor suspicious activity, including geographic shifts in cardholder use. Informing the bank can prevent unnecessary inconvenience while traveling.
Be aware if merchants take your card out of site for an extended period of time. Most merchants process transactions within your view. If you become suspicious, contact your financial institution to warn of possible fraud on your card/account.
Look at ATM, gas pump, or self-service kiosks. If you see an attached device that looks suspicious, don't use it. Notify the institution that owns the machine as soon as possible. If it's a First Bank ATM, contact us at 800-760-2265.
TELEPHONE FRAUD/VISHING
Protect your personal information, account numbers, User ID & password, card numbers and PINs. Use caution when providing this information to persons/entities over the phone.
Never give your debit or credit card numbers over the phone or Internet unless you have a trusted relationship with the person or company.
MAIL FRAUD
Promptly remove mail from your mailbox to mitigate the risk of it being stolen.
Watch for financial statements and bills for services or credit cards. If you don't get them when expected, contact the issuer immediately.
Beware of mail solicitations that offer prizes or awards--especially if you are asked to provide personal information or financial account numbers.
If you are going to be away from home for any extended period of time, arrange for the Post Office to hold your mail or make arrangements for a trusted family member or friend to collect your mail.
If you change your address, immediately notify your post office and anyone that you do business with by mail.
Never send cash or coin through the mail. Use checks or money orders.