Protect Your Accounts

Protect Your Bank Account

Monitor your account online at least once a week or more frequently and review your account details and transaction history for suspicious activity.
When available, sign up for online statements and shut off paper statements.
Set up account alerts when available.
Review your account statements carefully and report any unauthorized charges immediately.
Do not write or print your social security number or your driver’s license number on checks.
Store new and cancelled checks in secure locations, accessible only to trusted persons.
Shred old checks, receipts, account statements, and documents that contain sensitive information.

Never lend your ATM/debit/credit card to anyone.
Never let anyone watch you enter your PIN at an ATM or point of sale terminal.
Memorize your passwords and PIN numbers and change them regularly.
Avoid using obvious or easily obtainable information as your passwords or PIN numbers, and never write them down anywhere or reveal them to anyone.
Do not trust a site just because it claims to be secure. Before using the site, check out the security and encryption software it uses. Obtain a physical address rather than a post office box and a telephone number, and call a seller to see if the telephone number is correct and working.
Check out the Better Business Bureau from the seller’s area.
Be cautious when dealing with individuals or companies from outside your immediate area.
Do not send your card number through email or SMS text as it is typically not secure.
Do not give out your card number over the phone unless you initiated the call.
Review your statements to verify that they properly reflect the amounts you have authorized.
Keep a list of your credit card account numbers and telephone numbers to call if your cards are lost or stolen. Make sure the information is stored in a secure place.
If you receive a replacement card, activate it properly and destroy your old card.