What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is unauthorized use of your personal financial information or identifing information such as your SSN. This information can be used in a varity of ways to apply for credit, charge information, steal information/goods/service.

How does someone get my personal information?

Typically it is done through fraud and other illegal means. Some of this is accomplished via the Internet when purchasing goods and services through your Web Browser. You should always ensure that when giving any credit information over the Iinternet, that there is a secure connection to the site collecting the specific information.

If you have questions on this, contact your local bank for further guidance.

What is a Secure Connection?

A secure connection is an Internet Browser connection that is converting your information to a format that can only be read by the entended site. Others who may intercept this information are unable to read this information. This is called encryption.

Is E-Mail Secure?

Typically, e-Mail is not secure unless specific step are taken by both the receiving and sending person.