Don’t Become a Victim of Identity Theft
How does someone steal your identity? They steal your personal information such as your name, social security number, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, or other personal information. They then use that information to pose as YOU and make fraudulent purchases, money transfers, etc. at YOUR expense.
Identity theft is a serious crime – one that can take months or years to recover from if you are the victim. We at The Peoples Bank want you to understand some common terms, examples of how internet thieves get your information, and how you can protect yourself. We also want to be sure you know that you should act IMMEDIATELY if you feel like your information has been compromised. Please refer to the following links for some helpful information:
The Peoples Bank will never ask you to disclose confidential information via email. If you have any questions regarding a suspicious communication that appears to be originated from The Peoples Bank, call 410-778-3500 for assistance.
What to do if you fall victim:
- Contact your financial institution immediately and alert it to the situation.
- If you have disclosed sensitive information in a phishing attack, you should also contact one of the three major credit bureaus and discuss whether you need to place a fraud alert on your file, which will help prevent thieves from opening a new account in your name. Here is the contact information for each bureau’s fraud division:
| Equifax | Experian | Trans Union |
| 800-525-6285 P.O. Box 740250 Atlanta, GA 30374 | 888-397-3742 P.O. Box 1017 Allen, TX 75013 | 800-680-7289 P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92634 |
- Report all suspicious contacts to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at How to Avoid Being a Victim or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT.
Fraud Alert
Please keep a close watch on your accounts by using online banking or our mobile banking app. In case of a fraud alert you may receive emails or text alerts as well as a phone call. Please keep your contact information current with the bank.
Phishing Information
Random individuals and/or companies may receive a falsified e-mail with the subject title “Rejected ACH Transaction.” This e-mail appears to be from NACHA – The Electronic Payments Association telling them that there is a problem with an ACH transaction they have originated. The e-mail includes a link which redirects the individual to a fake web page which appears like the NACHA website and contains a link which is almost certainly executable virus with malware. See NACHA website for more information: www.nacha.org
Below are links to government websites and resources concerning online identity theft and steps you can take to protect yourself online.