The FBI says identity theft is the fastest growing white-collar crime in the nation. It involves criminally using another individual's personal identifiers, which are acquired through various means, including one's own mailbox. The identity thief needs only to get your name, address, bank or credit card account numbers or your Social Security number, etc., to take over your identity. The crook can then change your address, open new accounts at financial institutions and credit card companies in your name and deplete your funds, running up huge credit card balances and generally creating havoc with your good name and credit rating.
Here are a few pointers to help you avoid becoming a victim:
- Do not reveal personal identifiers unless you know how they will be used or shared.
- Deposit outgoing mail at the post office and remove delivered mail immediately.
- Carry only the identification and bank/credit cards you actually need.
- Do not give out personal data over the phone, through the mail or on the
- Internet unless you have initiated the contact. First Missouri State Bank will
- NEVER e-mail or telephone you requesting your account information.
- Shred or tear up your charge receipts, credit card solicitations, expired cards, statements, checks or other sensitive personal information.
- Give your Social Security number only when absolutely necessary. Ask to use other identifiers.
If you believe your First Missouri State Bank account information may have been compromised, please contact us immediately to assist you in protecting your assets and your identity.
First Missouri State Bank will NEVER e-mail or telephone you requesting your account information. NEVER respond to e mail (no matter how "official" it looks) or phone solicitations that ask you to provide account numbers, PIN numbers, social security numbers or any personal information related to your accounts at First Missouri State Bank. If you receive an e mail requesting such information, delete it immediately. If you receive a phone call asking for your information, hang up the phone. In both cases call First Missouri State Bank for further verification.
Never give out your account information, passwords or PIN numbers to anyone UNLESS YOU INITIATE THE CALL. If you believe your account information has been compromised, contact the bank immediately so changes can be implemented to secure your accounts.
Safeguarding your information is our priority.
