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Alert Issued For Bogus Emails

The Fedral Trade Commision (FTC) has issued a Consumer Alert regarding bogus emails containing false and misleading information about the alledged release of personal information starting July 1, 2005 by the major credit bureaus.

Don’t fall victim to the scam of Internet Phishing

Be aware, be cautious and don’t be afraid to be suspicious. Internet phishing and other identity theft crimes are on the rise. Internet Phishing is a criminal practice in which unsolicited email attempts to send a recipient to a forged website for the purpose of obtaining personal information such as name, address, phone number, date of birth, social security number, bank account or credit card numbers. It is amazing what can be done with someone’s personal information if fallen into the wrong hands.

Protect Yourself Do not share your personal information with anyone or on any web site that you are not 100% sure is legitimate. Don’t use the link in the email to get to your bank or credit card company. Use the web site address you are familiar with or the one published on any bank literature. Review bank and credit card statements monthly for any unauthorized transactions and do not share passwords, user Ids or your Personal Identification Number (PIN) with anyone. Change your password on a regular basis and report any suspicious activity immediately.

If you believe that you are a victim of “internet phishing” or if your Online Banking User ID or PIN may have been lost or stolen, notify your local South Valley Bank & Trust Branch immediately at 1-800-705-7872.

South Valley Bank & Trust along with other financial institutions prohibits employees from contacting you via email or by phone to request your Online Banking password and we will never solicit your personal information. We already have it as part of your account records.

Fight Identity Theft, Here’s How:

Never provide personal information, including your social security number, account numbers or passwords.
Never click on the link provided in an email unless you are 100% sure of the legitimacy of the email and never provide personal information when you get to the link.
Don’t be intimidated by an email or caller who suggests that there will be dire consequences if you do not immediately provide or verify financial information.
If you are contacted and asked for personal or account information, please ask the party to identify themselves and then contact South Valley Bank & Trust immediately.
If you fall victim to an attack, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution and all of the following major credit bureaus:
Report all suspicious contacts to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at www.consumer.gov/idtheft, or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).