F&M Bank - Identity Protection

BE SAFE & SECURE ONLINE

We are committed to helping keep you safe online.

How can you protect yourself from Identity Theft?

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is illegal use of another person's identity. It comes in many forms such as account fraud, credit/debit card fraud, communication (phone/computer), or stealing another's social security number.

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Types of Identity Theft Threats

Phishing - When an attacker is looking for one small piece of information. (i.e. account number).

Pharming - A "spoofed" or fake website that looks like a legitimate website and is used to get your information.

Spyware - Hidden files/programs that are downloaded unknowingly and spy on your computer from the inside.

Viruses - Files or programs that attack your computer and allow your computer to be taken over by another person or make your computer unusable.

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How can you protect yourself from Identity Theft?

TIPS to keep you safe

Keep credit/debit card numbers, PIN's, passwords checks, Social Security Numbers, insurance cards, driver's license numbers, or any other personal information in a safe location. (Dispose of this information properly if not needed. Using a cross-cut shredder is recommended.)

Keep deposit/withdrawal slips, credit card purchase receipts, bank and credit card statements, credit card solicitations, utility and medical bills, insurance information, and investment updates in a safe location. (Dispose of this information properly if information is no longer needed. Using a cross-cut shredder is recommended.)

Have all mail with sensitive information sent to a Post Office Box. When sending mail drop it off at a Postal Drop Box and not leave it in your mail box. Also stop your mail when you leave for vacation.

Never give out any information over the phone, unless you have a very good reason.

Limit the information on your checks and remember that your checks contain all of your account information.

Don't ever respond to unsolicited emails ask for your information. (Phishing, mentioned above)

Use only reputable websites and firewalls on the internet.

Promptly review all bank and credit card statements when they are received and report any unauthorized transactions immediately.

Don't use PIN's or passwords that are easy to guess.

Obtain and check copies of your credit report regularly. The three major reporting agencies are required to each give you a report once a year. (Information listed below)

Contact the three credit reporting agencies and report it if your identity has been stolen.

Equifax® - 1-800-525-6285

Experian® - 1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742)

Trans Union® - 1-800-680-7289

Close all accounts that are affected by ID theft, keep details records of everything involved. Contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). If mail is stolen contact the United States Postal Service.

"Do Not Lists"

Request to not receive anymore pre-approved offers of credit: 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688)

National do not call registry: 1-888-382-1222 or www.donotcall.gov

To be removed from the national direct mailing list: Write to the DMA Mail Preference Service, PO BOX 643, Carmel, NY 10512; or you can go online to www.the-dma.org/consumers/offmailinglist.html

Identity Theft Resources

**These links will take you out of the F&M Bank Website**

Microsoft Update
(Make sure your computer is up-to-date to avoid the latest vulnerabilities)

Federal Trade Commission

Annual Credit Report
(Get your annual credit report from all 3 of the credit bureaus free of charge, you may also call
1-877-FACT ACT)