The Bank of Greene County Safety Statement

Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission website is a valuable source of information that can assist you with reporting identity theft, learning about online safety, protecting kids online and getting scam alerts.

Identity Theft

Visit the Federal Trade Commission website for information on how to protect yourself against identity theft.

Visit the Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft website to report identity theft and get a recovery plan. This website is the federal government’s one-stop resource for identity theft victims. The site provides streamlined checklists and sample letters to guide you through the recovery process.

What Do Thieves Do With Your Information?

Once identity thieves have your personal information, they can drain your bank account, run up charges on your credit cards, open new utility accounts, or get medical treatment on your health insurance. An identity thief can file a tax refund in your name and get your refund. In some extreme cases, a thief might even give your name to the police during an arrest.

Clues That Someone Has Stolen Your Information…

You see withdrawals from your bank account that you can’t explain.
You don’t get your bills or other mail.
Merchants refuse your checks.
Debt collectors call you about debts that aren’t yours.
You find unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.
Medical providers bill you for services you didn’t use.
Your health plan rejects your legitimate medical claim because the records show you’ve reached your benefits limit.
A health plan won’t cover you because your medical records show a condition you don’t have.
The IRS notifies you that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.
You get notice that your information was compromised by a data breach at a company where you do business or have an account.

If your wallet, Social Security number, or other personal information is lost or stolen, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself from identity theft.

Nationwide Credit Reporting Companies

If you are a victim of identity theft, be sure to contact each of the nationwide credit reporting companies:

Online Security

Visit the Federal Trade Commission website to obtain important information about online security. The Internet offers access to a world of products and services, entertainment and information. At the same time, it creates opportunities for scammers, hackers and identity thieves. Learn how to protect your computer, your information and your online files.

Protecting Kids Online

Also visit the Federal Trade Commission website to obtain important information about protecting kids online. The opportunities kids have to socialize online come with benefits and risks. Adults can help reduce the risks by talking to kids about making safe and responsible decisions. Topics include: cyberbullying, computer safety, mobile phones, online socializing, virtual worlds, texting, video games, parental controls and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).