Identity Theft Prevention Questions and Answers

Identity Theft

Identity theft is the unlawful use of another person’s identification. It can destroy the financial history you have worked so hard to obtain. The following lists ways that you can help protect yourself from identity theft.

General Identity Theft Protection

Keep any items containing confidential information safe e.g. Social Security cards, Driver’s License number and financial information.
Never release any personal information to anyone over the phone unless you initiated the call.
When disposing of confidential information, please do so by shredding.
Never respond to an email requesting personal information.
Make sure you do business with reputable companies, especially internet based.
Avoid storing your banking password or other sensitive information on your computer, smartphone or in an app where it could be discovered if your device is stolen.
Review your credit report at least once a year to look for unauthorized accounts opened in your name. Receive a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Bank Account and Card Security

Report lost or stolen cards and checks immediately.
Review account statements carefully. Doing so will help quickly detect and stop fraudulent activity.
Limit the amount of information that is written on checks.
When selecting a Personal Identification Number (PIN) don’t use any number or word that appears in your wallet (such as name, birth date, or phone number).
Ensure no one sees your PIN when you enter it. Never share your PIN with anyone.
Always keep your debit and credit cards in a safe and secure place.
If you receive a replacement debit or credit card, cut up and discard your old card.

Cybersecurity

Keep your software up to date.
Use anti-virus software.
Take advantage of internet safety features.
Protect your passwords and security questions.
Conduct online banking on secure computers only.
Use secure websites for transactions and shopping. Look for secure transaction signs such as a closed-lock icon and “https://...” in the address bar.
Always log off from any website after making a purchase with your credit card or debit card. If you cannot log off, shut down your browser to prevent unauthorized access to your account.

Mobile Application Security

Texas National Bank does not recommend using fingerprint authentication or face recognition if others have access to your mobile device. If these features are activated, someone else may be able to access your Texas National Bank mobile app and view your account information and complete transactions. For Face ID, if you have family members that look like you, we recommend using your username and password to sign in.
Using the SecurLOCK Equip App, set up account alerts so you will be notified of online purchases, ATM withdrawals, etc.
When you are finished using your online banking app, always sign off.

Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Personal Information

Talk with your child about safe online practices.
Help your child learn to analyze advertisements, some of which may be fraudulent.
Secure electronic equipment.
If a company wants to collect data on your child, find out why.
Be aware of possible signs that a child is the victim of identity theft.
Consider asking the three major nationwide credit reporting agencies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to check if your minor child has a credit report.

Reporting Identity Theft

In the event that you suspect your identity has been stolen or you are, in fact, certain that it has been stolen follow these simple steps. Report Identity Fraud & Identity Theft