Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing financial crimes in the United States, and it can happen to anyone. That’s why Identity Theft Awareness Week, January 26–30, is an important reminder to stay informed, alert, and proactive in protecting your personal and financial information.
Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or login credentials, and uses it without your permission. This can lead to unauthorized purchases, the opening of new accounts in your name, or even damage to your credit.
Criminals often rely on deception to get what they want. Some of the most common methods include:
- Phishing emails or texts that appear to be from trusted organizations
- Phone scams requesting personal or financial information
- Data breaches from compromised websites or businesses
- Stolen mail or documents containing sensitive details
You can take several simple but effective steps to safeguard your identity:
- Use strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts
- Enable multi-factor authentication whenever available
- Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown sources
- Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements
- Shred sensitive documents
Early detection can limit the damage of identity theft. Be on the lookout for:
- Transactions you don’t recognize
- Bills or statements that stop arriving
- Alerts for accounts you didn’t open
- Calls from debt collectors about unfamiliar charges
If you notice anything suspicious, act immediately.
As your community bank, we’re committed to helping you protect your financial well-being. If you ever suspect identity theft or have questions about account security, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Identity Theft Awareness Week is a great opportunity to review your habits and take proactive steps toward better security. Staying informed is one of the most powerful tools you have.
If you have questions or concerns, stop by your local Better Banks branch or contact us—we’re always here to help.
