Protecting your Identity

Protecting Your Identity

Identity theft is here to stay, unfortunately. Learn how to protect yourself.

• Update passwords regularly 
  Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols for your passwords and change them periodically. Stay away using anything that anyone can guess.
• Shred sensitive documents 
  Anything with your personal information on it should be shredded before throwing them away.
• Use digital banking to keep track of your accounts
  Monitor your financial accounts regularly for fraudulent transactions. Sign up for text or email alerts from your bank for certain types of transactions, such as online purchases or transactions of more than $500. 
• Monitor your credit reports
  Request a free copy of your credit report every four months from one of the three credit reporting agencies at annualcreditreport.com.
• Protect your computer and mobile devices
  Make sure the virus protection software on your computer is active and updated, and also make sure it is installed on your mobile devices, as well. Use passcodes to limit access to your computers and devices. When conducting business online, make sure your browser’s padlock or key icon is active. Also look for an “s” after the “http” to be sure the website is secure. 
• Report any possible fraud to your bank immediately