Identity theft can happen to anyone, and during the holiday season, scammers are especially active. December is Identity Theft Protection Awareness Month, and at First United Bank & Trust, we’re committed to helping our community stay informed and protected.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the American Bankers Association (ABA), here are some essential tips to help safeguard your identity:
- Monitor your accounts regularly. Check your bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar charges.
- Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Be cautious with personal information. Don’t share sensitive details over email, text, or phone unless you’re sure who you’re talking to.
- Shred documents that contain personal or financial information before throwing them away.
- Watch out for phishing scams. If an email or message seems suspicious, don’t click on links or download attachments.
Identity theft can lead to financial loss, credit damage, and stress, but with the right precautions, you can protect yourself and your family.
We’ve created a dedicated resource at MyBank.com/security to help you stay ahead of fraud. It’s filled with tips, tools, and updates to keep your identity safe all year long.
At First United Bank & Trust, your security is our priority, because we care about the people we serve.