(Financial Institution) has published this guide to help raise your awareness of identity theft.
The security of your private information is very important to us, and we will always do our best to protect your information. We are honored that you have put your trust in our bank.

(Financial Institution) will never provide your confidential information to any source not affiliated with the bank. We will also never ask you for personal information through e-mail.

The best defense against identity theft is to “be informed”. We encourage you to share this information with your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

Sincerely,

Name
Title
Bank Name
What is Phishing?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your name, address, Social Security number (SSN), bank or credit card account numbers, passwords, or other personal information without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes.

While on-line banking and e-commerce are very safe with built-in security features for your protection, to avoid identity theft you should always be careful about responding to unsolicited requests for your personal financial information via the Internet, email, phone or mail.

How to Spot Phishing
Be Informed. One of the most common forms of stealing your banking account information is through a process called Phsihing. This is a scam that uses email to deceive you into disclosing personal information.

How to Spot Phishing:

  • The email and linking Website may appear authentic. It may look just like our Website.
  • It may ask you to “update” or “validate” your account information! Test Bank will never ask for private information by email or unsecured Website.
  • Often it will threaten some consequence if you don’t respond.

These are clear indicators that someone is Phishing for your information.
Steps to Avoid Being Phished
If you receive a suspicious email from Test Bank requesting personal information such as Social Security number, bank and credit card numbers, user names and passwords, follow these important guidelines:
  • Do not reply to the email even if it appears urgent.
  • Do not use the links from the email to open any Web page.
  • Alert Test Bank immediately at 123-1234. Don’t call any phone numbers appearing on the e-mail.

Even though the laws are on your side, it’s wise to take an active role in protecting your information.

I Think I’ve Been Phished – Here’s What to Do Now!
  • Contact Test Bank Immediately at 123-1234
  • Place a fraud alert on your credit report with the three major credit bureaus. Also request to review your credit reports for suspicious activity at that time. You need to call only one of the three major credit bureaus, and they will, by law, contact the other two for you.
    • Equifax: 888-766-0008
    • Experian: 888-397-3742
    • Trans Union: 800-680-7289
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov
Ten Ways to Avoid Identity Theft
What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone illegally obtains your personal information — such as your Social Security number, bank account number, or other identification — and uses it repeatedly to open new accounts or initiate transactions in your name.

Identity Theft is much like Phishing, but with one important difference. Identity Theft can be done online and offline. Fact of the matter is, the majority of all identity theft is done offline in very non-technically savvy ways. Sorting through trash being the number one way thieves get your information. These are simple ways to avoid having your information stolen both online and offline.
  • Destroy Private Records & Statements: Tear, Cut, or Shred any bank, credit card, or financial statements that include any private information. This does include solicitations as well as correspondence, in particular if a credit card company sends promotional checks and you don’t intend to use them.
  • Keep Your Mail Safe: Empty your mailbox as soon as possible after receiving it. You may also get a mailbox that locks or choose to use a PO Box at the Post Office. Never mail outgoing bill payments and checks from home.
  • Protect Your Social Security Number: Never carry your card on you, or any other card that may contain it (Health Insurance or Student ID Card). Also, don’t place your Social Security Number on your checks. The Social Security Number is the key piece thieves need to access your credit report and bank accounts.
  • Watch your Receipts: Never forget to take your ATM, credit card, or gas receipt with you.
  • Don’t Lose Track of your Card: Always keep an eye on your card when using it to pay for things. If this can’t be done, pay with cash.
  • Know Who You are Doing Business With: If someone makes contact with you and requests some personal information, think twice. Simply call back the company with the number you have in your records to verify it is a legitimate before giving out any information, do not use a call back number they provide. Once you are satisfied, then and only then give out your information.
  • Take Your Name Off Direct Marketing Lists: Put your name on the Do-Not-Call-List (1-888-382-1222) & call two of the major list providers in the United States, InfoUSA & Experian to be taken off of their lists as well.
  • Be More Protective of Your Information: If anyone asks for your Social Security Number or Driver’s License Number, ask if it is absolutely necessary. This may be a salesperson or waiter. Also, when a company, such as your insurance provider, needs your personal information make sure you know what their privacy policy is. Before filling out warranty cards for products you purchase, be aware that your information may be sold to a third party. Remember, products still honor the warranty with a sales receipt or UPC.
  • Scrutinize Your Credit Report Annually: By law, you can receive a free credit report each and every year. Look through the report carefully to see if there is any suspicious activity. If so, contact your credit card company immediately. You may also want to sign up for a credit protection service that will alert you any time a change takes place with your credit report.
  • Review Your Bank & Credit Card Statements: Review all purchases by verifying the merchant, location, date, amount, and the purchase before you pay the bill. If you have any open credit card accounts that you don’t use, consider closing them.
For More Information Visit These Sites