Identity Theft
Prince George’s Federal Savings Bank works continuously to
make sure your account and information are safe. By
understanding exactly what identity theft is, how it happens,
and how it affects you, you will be better able to prevent and,
if necessary resolve identity theft. Here are some general
precautions that you can take to help reduce your risk of being
a victim of ID theft.
What is identity theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone illegally obtains your
personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank
account number, date of birth or other identification, and uses
it to commit fraud. For example, someone might do a combination
of the following: open new credit cards, open new bank accounts,
forge checks, and even apply for loans using your name and
personal information. This can cause financial loss and damage
your credit, which can lead to a lengthy resolution process.
Keep in mind however, that even if you think your security has
been compromised, it does not automatically mean that you are a
victim of identity theft. It might be an incorrect entry or an
isolated incident of theft that can be quickly resolved by
contacting us.
How can I help protect myself?
- NEVER provide any personal information to an inquiry
that is originated by someone else. No financial
institution, business or government agency will request you
to confirm personal information. They already have that
information if you have conducted business with them before.
Do not open or respond to email messages requesting personal
information. Do not provide social security numbers, account
numbers, credit card numbers, passwords, user name etc.
Prince George’s Federal Savings Bank will never send email
messages containing attachments, or require customers to
send personal information via email or pop-up windows.
- Don’t give your Social Security number or other personal
credit information about yourself to anyone who calls you.
- Tear up receipts, bank statements and unused credit card
offers before throwing them away.
- Keep an eye out for any missing mail.
- Don’t mail bills from your own mailbox with the flag up.
- Review your monthly accounts regularly for any
unauthorized charges.
- Order copies of your credit report once a year to ensure
accuracy.
- Do business with companies you know are reputable,
particularly online.
- Don’t open email from unknown sources and use virus
detection software.
- Protect your PINs (don’t carry them in your wallet!) and
passwords; use a combination of letters and numbers for your
passwords and change them periodically.
- Report any suspected fraud to your bank and the fraud
units of the three credit reporting agencies immediately.
TransUnion:
www.transunion.com, (800) 525-6285
Experian:
www.experian.com, (800) 397-3742
Equifax:
www.equifax.com, (800) 685-1111
If you become a victim, contact:
- The fraud departments of the three major credit bureaus.
- The creditors of any accounts that have been misused.
- The local police to file a report.
- The bank to cancel existing accounts held in your name
and re-open new accounts with new passwords. Upper Marlboro
Branch, 301-627-3504 Lyons Creek (Dunkirk) Branch,
301-855-3600 Huntingtown Branch, 301-855-1411
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
www.consumer.gov/idtheft,
1-877-IDTHEFT, (877) 438-4338
- Social Security Administration:
www.ssa.gov, 800-269-0271
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