Protecting Your Identity
Keep Yourself Safe From Identity Theft
Identity theft is the illegal use of someone’s personal information (usernames, passwords, account numbers, etc.) specifically to obtain money or credit. The criminal uses this stolen information to transfer money, run up credit card bills, change address information, or open new accounts all without your permission. For more information on identity theft, visit the FTC’s website.
Guardian Savings Bank Fraud Department
If someone compromises your account or you receive a suspicious email, please contact our Fraud Department at the contact information below. We are available Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (EST). Any email or voice mail received after-hours will be returned the next business day.
(513) 942-3500 [email protected]Phishing
Phishing is one technique that criminals use to steal identities. Claiming to be from a legitimate company, the criminal will send you a fraudulent email that asks you for your personal/confidential information. Often, the email will direct you to a fraudulent website that looks like the real thing. The site then prompts you to enter your personal/confidential information (i.e. username, password, account number, name, address, phone number, etc.). The criminal puts this information into a database to use your identity later. For more information on phishing, visit the APWG’s website.
Keep Yourself Safe From Identity Theft
- Think before you click! Never click a link in an email. Instead, type the website address in the address bar of your browser.
- Check your bank and credit card accounts often to identify suspicious activity.
- Check your credit report regularly to identify suspicious activity.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to the proper authorities.
- Never give out account numbers, PIN numbers, credit/debit card numbers, usernames, passwords, or Social Security numbers to anyone you have not personally contacted.