Protection

Tips to avoid Fraud and ID Theft 

1. Protect your Social Security Number.

• ​Only provide your SSN if you have initiated contact following confirmation of business identity.
• Passwords or personal identification numbers (PINs) should not include partial or complete Social Security numbers.
• Ensure any website requesting your Social Security number is encrypted and understand how the recipient will protect the information.

2. Use secure online solutions.

• Unless required by law, do not write or print your Social Security Number or driver's license number on checks or gift certificates.
• Be aware and cautious of your surroundings when disclosing your Social Security number or driver's license number.
• Limit personal information printed on checks or elsewhere, to reduce chance of theft.
• Use e-Statements.
• View checks online (in online banking, click on the check icon next to the transaction description on the History page).
• Deposit funds using a direct deposit solution. It reduces the number of pieces of paper that can be stolen or viewed by others.

3. Check your statements.

• Check receipts against your online monthly billing or account statements to verify all of your transactions.
• Sign the signature panel on your credit cards and debit cards as soon as you receive them, so that a thief cannot just sign them instead.
• Keep a list of all your card account numbers and telephone numbers to call if cards are ever lost or stolen.

4. Protect your surroundings.

• Use ATMs with surveillance cameras and be aware of people and your surroundings.
• Secure your card and cash immediately before exiting an ATM area.

5. Protect your computer. 

• Stay current with operating system security patches and Web browser updates.

• Update your computer with anti-virus and anti-spyware protection.

• Implement a firewall solution to prevent unauthorized access to your computer.