Protect Yourself from Fraud & Identity Theft
Identity theft can happen to anyone, which is why looking out for one another matters. Staying safe starts with understanding the risks and sharing practical ways to protect ourselves and our community. By learning what fraud and identity theft really look like, we can all take steps toward keeping ourselves and each other safe.
Protect Yourself from Fraud & Identity Theft
Identity theft can happen to anyone, which is why looking out for one another matters. Staying safe starts with understanding the risks and sharing practical ways to protect ourselves and our community. By learning what fraud and identity theft really look like, we can all take steps toward keeping ourselves and each other safe.
Identity Theft
Identity theft is a form of fraud where someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission. Unfortunately, many people don't realize it's happening until they notice unfamiliar charges, debt collection calls, or accounts they've never opened. Report identity theft and get a personalized recovery plan from trusted resources like:
You can also explore prevention tips and education from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Fraud Prevention
Thanks to technology, scammers no longer need to rely on stolen wallets to gain your information. While it sounds scary, the truth is that most cases can be prevented or minimized with awareness and a few small habits.
Tips to Prevent Fraud:
- Scammers often try to rush you into sharing information quickly to avoid a consequence, like the failure to deliver a package or getting locked out of an account. Watch out for texts or emails that try to convey a sense of urgency and be wary of communications that do not address you directly.
- Many times, attackers will "accidentally" send you funds or ask you to deposit a check into your account and send it back to them. Don't fall for it. The transaction will be fraudulent — and you'll be out the money.
- Attackers like to trick you with common display names or enticing attachments, but just because it looks like it's coming from a person or platform you trust, doesn't mean it's truthful. Always double-check the email address to confirm the true sender and hover over attachments before clicking.
Other Ways to Protect Yourself Online
- Keep Personal Information Secure: Never share personal information (login credentials, account number, Social Security number, etc.) over email, text, phone, or social media unless you initiated contact.
- Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Your passwords should be unique for all of your online accounts and avoid using identifiable information like your birthday. Update them regularly and keep them safe.
- Never Click Suspicious Link: Scammers often use links that mimic legitimate URL addresses to get you to click. Once you do, they can gain unauthorized access to your accounts and personal information.
- Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Keeping an eye on your accounts helps you catch suspicious activity early. Take advantage of FSB Mobile tools and sign up for eStatements and eAlerts.
- Protect Your Devices: Mobile devices and computers store a lot of personal data, making them prime targets. Keeping your software up-to-date with the latest security features, using passcodes, fingerprint and/or facial recognition, and being cautious when on public Wi-Fi can all help protect your device.
What to Do If You're a Victim of Fraud
If you think you're at risk or believe your account or identity has already been compromised, it's important to let us know as soon as possible.
Please call us at (580) 623-4945 or visit us for tailored support and help securing your accounts, or make a report to our anytime Fraud Hotline at (855) 219-5399.