Did you know that identity theft is the most popular and profitable form of consumer fraud? It occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, social security number, credit card number or other identifying information, without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. To help you protect yourself from ID theft, we’ve listed four common ways identity theft can happen.

“Old Fashioned” Stealing

Thieves typically steal wallets and purses and will use the information inside to commit fraud. They also steal mail such as credit card and bank statements, pre-approved credit card offers, check orders and other financial mail.

Dumpster Diving

Thieves dig through trash looking for bills, financial or other personal information.

Phishing

Thieves may send unsolicited emails, pretending to be a financial institution or a company, asking you to click a link to update or confirm your personal or login information. The link is directed to a “spoof” website designed to look like a legitimate site.

Skimming

Using a card reader device, thieves will copy the card’s magnetic strip to duplicate without the card owner’s knowledge.

Ways You Can Protect Your Information

We urge you to monitor your accounts. Keep track of transactions on your accounts by logging in to Anchor Bank’s Online Banking, where you can view your activity as it is posted. However, here are other ways you can protect your information.

• Do not carry your social security card in your wallet.
• Do not have personal information such as your social security number and driver’s license number printed on your checks.
• Keep your new and cancelled checks in a safe place.
• Do not leave your purse, wallet, checkbook, or any other forms of identification in your car
• Shred or tear up any documents containing banking or credit information, especially pre-approved credit offers, before you throw them away. To opt out of pre-approved credit card offers, call 1-888-567-8688.
• Keep your PINs and passwords a secret. Do not write them down or share them with anyone.