Protection
Measures you can take
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.
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Stay current with operating system security patches and Web browser updates.
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Update your computer with anti-virus and anti-spyware protection.
- Implement a firewall solution to prevent unauthorized access to your computer.