How to Prevent Identity Theft

Identity theft is a pressing concern in today's digital age, where personal information can be easily compromised. Recognizing the importance of protecting your personal data, we've compiled essential steps to safeguard yourself against identity theft and what actions to take if you become a victim.

 

What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s personal information without authorization to commit fraud or other crimes. The stolen information may include:

• Demographic Information: Such as your name, Social Security number, phone number, and more.
• Credit Information: Details about your credit accounts, credit cards, and other financial data.

 

What can I do to prevent identity theft?
While we take extensive measures to protect your information, there are several proactive steps you can take to secure your personal data:

Keep Documents Safe
Store documents containing personal information—such as your Social Security number, ID cards, birth certificates, and passports—in a secure place. If you stop receiving your mail, contact USPS immediately, as someone may have requested that your mail be forwarded to their address.

Don’t Share Passwords
Do not share your passwords or access codes for your checking accounts, savings accounts, or credit or debit cards. Choose passwords that are difficult to guess or copy, and avoid using easily accessible information like birthdates or family names.

Destroy Old Cards
Cancel inactive credit or debit card accounts and shred any cards you no longer use, including unnecessary bank correspondence.

Only Carry What You Need
Limit the number of credit cards and personal information you carry in your wallet or purse. Keep copies, front and back, of all your cards and documents to expedite reporting if anything gets lost or stolen.

Clean Up Old Devices
If you no longer use a computer or mobile device, delete all personal information, including passwords.

Protect Your Public Information
Avoid including personal identifying information, such as your birthdate or mailing address, on public social media profiles.

Only Use Private Networks
Connect to the internet using secure connections that require a password. Public networks can leave your device vulnerable to attackers.

Store Your Passwords Securely
Avoid recording passwords on your computer or mobile device without a secure password manager. Passwords stored in documents or spreadsheets can be easily stolen by anyone accessing your device.

Monitor Account Activity
Match your credit and debit card receipts against monthly statements and report any unauthorized charges immediately.

 

What can I do if I am a victim of identity theft?
If you suspect that you are a victim of identity theft, taking immediate action can help minimize the damage:

Request a Security Freeze
Consider contacting a credit reporting agency to request a security freeze on your credit report. A security freeze makes it more difficult for thieves to open fraudulent accounts using your information. However, it will not prevent them from charging your existing accounts.

Place a Fraud Alert
If you choose not to request a security freeze, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports. A fraud alert notifies creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Check Your Credit Reports
Review your annual credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion regularly. Look for accounts or activities you don’t recognize, such as "new" or "re-opened" accounts. This could indicate identity theft.

Monitor Your Bank Accounts
Access your bank accounts and credit cards frequently to identify and report any suspicious transactions or charges.

Visit IdentityTheft.gov
For more information on how to protect yourself after a data security breach, visit IdentityTheft.gov. This resource offers comprehensive steps to take if you believe your identity has been compromised.

By taking these preventive measures and knowing what to do if your identity is stolen, you can better protect yourself and your financial future. U.S. Century Bank is committed to helping you prevent identity theft and offers robust security measures to keep your information safe. If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us.