Identity Theft/Fraud

Avoid Identity Theft

Identity Theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes.

Defend against identity theft as soon as you suspect it.

• Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and review the reports carefully
• Experian 1-888-397-3742
• TransUnion 1-800-680-7289
• Equifax 1-800-525-6285
• Contact the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or charged without your okay.
• File a police report with local law enforcement.
• Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission, 1-877-438-4338 or www.ftc.gov/idtheft 

Deter identity theft by safeguarding your information.

• Shred all financial documents.
• Protect your Social Security number.
• Do not give our personal information by phone, mail or email unless you know who you are dealing with.
• Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails.
• Don't use an obvious password.
• Keep personal information in a secure place.

Detect suspicious activity by routinely monitoring your financial accounts and billing statements. Be alert to signs that require immediate attention:

• Bills that do not arrive as expected.
• Unexpected credit cards or account statements that you receive.
• Denials of credit for no apparent reason.
• Calls or letters about purchases you did not make.
• Charges on your financial statements that you don't recognize.
• Inspect your credit report at least annually. 

Consumer Protection tips you should know from CBC Bank:

1. We will not ask for account numbers and other sensitive personal information by email.
2. If you have responded to a suspicious email, contact us immediately so we can protect your account(s) and your identity.
3. Never give out your personal or financial information in response to an unsolicited phone call, fax or email, no matter how official it may seem.
4. Do not respond to emails that may warn of dire consequences unless you validate your information immediately.
5. Check your bank and credit card statements regularly and look for unauthorized transactions, even small ones. Report discrepancies immediately. 
6. When submitting financial information online, look for the padlock or key icon at the bottom of your internet browser. Most secure internet addresses, though not all, use "https". 

Additional resources are available through the Federal Trade Commission, www.ftc.gov/idtheft  or by calling 1-877-438-4338.