Identity Theft Awareness Week: Essential Tips for Safeguarding Your Identity
As we recognize Identity Theft Awareness Week, it’s important to acknowledge the growing threat of identity theft in our digital age. In the first six months of 2024 alone, the FTC reported more than 550 million cases of Identity Theft.
At Carter Bank, we prioritize your security. As a reminder, we will not contact you asking for personal or account information.
Here are some tips to help you stay vigilant and protect your identity.
- Keep Your Information Private: Be cautious about sharing your Social Security number or account information online or over the phone. Always verify the authenticity of any request.
- Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and change them regularly. Consider using password managers for added security.
- Monitor Your Mail: Watch for missing mail, especially monthly bank or credit card statements, as fraudsters often target personal mail. Opt for online banking for extra protection, and avoid mailing bills with the flag up.
- Check Your Credit Report: You are entitled to a FREE copy of your credit report every four months from annualcreditreport.com. Monitoring your credit can help you spot any suspicious activity early.
- Secure Your Computer: Ensure your virus protection software is always up to date. While browsing, look for the padlock icon or “https” in URLs to confirm a secure connection.
- Protect Your Mobile Device: Secure your smartphone with passcode locks, wipe your information before donating or selling it, and be cautious when downloading new apps.
- Act Quickly: If you suspect fraud, contact Carter Bank immediately. Early reporting is crucial to protecting your finances, and always remember that we will not ask for your personal information through unsolicited communications.
Implementing these proactive measures will help you protect your identity and financial security.