Ways to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal identification information, like your name, Social Security number or credit card number, without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.

Here are some ways you can protect yourself:
 

• Shred any financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.

 

• Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier. 

 

• Don’t give out personal information over the phone, through the mail, or on the internet unless you know who you are dealing with.

 

• Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a web address you know. Keep your anti-spyware and anti-virus software up-to-date. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.

 

• Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

 

• If you’re going on vacation or a business trip, call your credit card company(s) and let them know where you’re going and for how long.

The American Bankers Association offers eight tips to help consumers protect their information and avoid becoming a victim.

Visit our Fraud/Identity Theft page to learn more: https://www.sbsavings.bank/resources/security-resources/fraud-identity-theft