Identity Theft: Know the Warning Signs
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information without permission – often to open accounts, access existing accounts, file claims, or make purchases.
Is it Identity Theft, Fraud, or a Scam?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they do not mean exactly the same thing.
Identity Theft
Someone uses your personal information as if they were you.
Examples include opening a credit card in your name, using your Social Security number to apply for benefits , or filing a tax return using your information.
Account or Card Fraud
Someone uses one of your existing accounts or cards to make an unauthorized transaction.
Examples include an unfamiliar debit card purchase, an unauthorized withdrawal, or a payment you did not make.
Report a Lost or Stolen CardScam
Someone tries to manipulate or deceive you into sending money, sharing information, or granting access to an account or device.
Examples include fake bank calls, romance scams, government imposters, and fraudulent payment requests.
Learn How to Avoid ScamsNot Sure What Happened?
Start by reviewing your accounts and credit information. If someone has already used your identity or personal information, visit our recovery page for immediate next steps.
Common Types of Identity Theft
New Account Identity Theft
Someone uses your information to open a new credit card, bank account, loan, utility account, or other service in your name.
Account Takeover
Someone gains access to one of your existing accounts and changes information, transfers money, or makes purchases.
Tax Identity Theft
Someone uses your Social Security number to file a tax return or claim a refund before you file.
Social Security Identity Theft
Someone uses your Social Security number to apply for credit, employment, government benefits, or other services.
Medical Identity Theft
Someone uses your personal or insurance information to obtain medical treatment, prescriptions, or insurance payments.
Child Identity Theft
Someone uses a child's Social Security number or personal information to open accounts, apply for credit, or receive services.
Child identity theft may go unnoticed for years because children do not typically review credit reports.
Employment or Unemployment Identity Theft
Someone uses your personal information to obtain employment, report earnings, or apply for unemployment benefits.
What Describes Your Situation?
I See an Unfamiliar FVSBank Transaction
Review the transaction carefully. If you still do not recognize it, contact FVSBank immediately.
If your debit card is missing or may have been compromised, report it as lost or stolen.
Report a Lost or Stolen CardMy Information was Exposed, but I Have Not Seen Fraud
A data breach or suspicious message does not always mean your identity has been used. However, it is important to strengthen your account security and watch for unusual activity.
Review steps that may help protect your accounts, devices, credit, and personal information.
Review Identity Theft Prevention Tips/fraud-center/id-theft-resources/
Take action as soon as possible. Contact affected financial institutions or companies, secure your accounts, and begin documenting what happened.
Our recovery page provides step-by-step guidance and trusted reporting resources.
Get Identity Theft Recovery Help
Stay Alert. Act Quickly.
You may not be able to prevent every attempt to steal your information, but recognizing unusual activity early can help limit the damage.
Review your financial accounts regularly, pay attention to unexpected notices, and contact FVSBank when something doesn’t look right.
Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
Identity Theft Recovery and Resources
Important Security Reminder
FVSBank may contact you about suspicious account activity. However, we will not ask you to provide your full Digital Banking password, debit card PIN, or one-time security code through an unsolicited phone call, email, or text message.
When you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate, stop and contact FVSBank using a phone number or website you know is genuine.