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identity theft identity theft
September 06, 2023
Financial Freedom

Identity Theft: Protect Your Information

 

Identity theft can happen to anyone. By taking precautions and staying vigilant, you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

 


 

Common methods of identity theft used by fraudsters

Change of Address
Changing the address on your billing/account statements

Dumpster Diving
Rummaging through trash looking for statements or other documents that contain your personal information

Phishing
Sending spam or pop-up messages via email

Skimming
Affixing special storage devices to card readers to steal debit/credit card information

Theft
Stealing wallets, purses, backpacks and mail

 

Indications that your identity may have been stolen

  • Bills and account statements do not arrive as scheduled
  • Charges that you did not make appear on billing statements and/or bank statements
  • You receive debit cards or credit cards which were not requested by you
  • Your credit report shows accounts that were not opened by you
  • You receive information indicating that you were approved/denied for credit for which you did not apply
  • You receive calls or notices regarding purchases that you did not make

 

Safeguard your information

  • Shred financial documents that contain personal information
  • Never give out personal or account information unless you know the party with whom you are dealing
  • If you receive a “too good to be true” offer, do not wire or send money to the requestor
  • Never click on links or pop-up messages in unsolicited emails
  • Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software and firewalls to protect your home computer
  • Use strong passwords; do not include birthdates, maiden names or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Keep your financial information in a secure place in your home
  • Promptly review bank and credit card statements upon receipt
  • Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check

At Trustmark, we believe the privacy and security of our customers’ information is of utmost importance. We will never request confidential information via email or phone. However, we may ask you for your information to verify your identity if you call us.

If you receive any unsolicited emails or phone calls allegedly from Trustmark requesting confidential information, contact us immediately at 1.800.243.2524, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CT.

 

To report suspicious or suspected fraudulent activity, contact the following:

Your Financial Institution

  • Close accounts impacted by fraud
  • Report stolen debit/credit cards

Credit Bureaus
Equifax | 1.800.525.6285
Experian | 1.888.397.3742
TransUnion | 1.800.680.7289

Your Local Police Department

Federal Trade Commission
Phone | 1.877.438.4338
Online | ftc.gov/idtheft

In Writing:
Identity Theft Clearinghouse
Federal Trade Commission
Washington, DC 20580

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