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Protect Yourself Against Scams and Identity Theft

Protect Yourself Against Scams and Identity Theft

In today's digital age, scams and identity theft are prevalent threats that can compromise your financial security and personal information. Ascent Bank in Helena, Montana, is committed to safeguarding your assets and providing you with the knowledge to protect yourself against these risks. Here are some common scams to be aware of and steps to take if you fall victim to identity theft.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

  • Phishing Scams: Fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from a reputable source, asking for personal information.
  • Phone Scams: Calls from individuals posing as bank representatives or government officials requesting sensitive information.
  • Online Shopping Scams: Fake websites or online sellers that collect your payment information but never deliver the promised goods.
  • Investment Scams: Fraudulent investment opportunities promising high returns with little risk.

Steps to Take If You're a Victim of Identity Theft

If you suspect that you have been a victim of identity theft, it's crucial to act quickly to minimize the damage and protect your financial well-being. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Report to the Montana Department of Labor & Industry: Immediately report the incident online at Montana DLI Fraud Reporting or call the UI Fraud Insurance hotline at (406) 444-0072 or 1-888-556-4677.
  2. Contact Ascent Bank Customer Service: Notify Ascent Bank by calling (406) 442-8870 or by emailing [email protected]. Our team will assist you in securing your accounts and preventing further unauthorized access.
  3. File a Police Report: Contact your local police department to determine if you should file a fraud report. This report can be helpful in disputing fraudulent transactions and reclaiming your identity.
  4. Alert the Credit Bureaus: Contact the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Inform them about the fraud and consider placing a freeze on your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. This can be done through their respective websites or customer service lines.
  5. Monitor Your Other Financial Accounts: Immediately notify your other financial institutions about the identity theft. They can assist in monitoring your accounts for unusual activity and securing your information.
  6. Utilize Federal Trade Commission Resources: Visit the FTC's identity theft website for comprehensive resources and a detailed step-by-step process for reporting and protecting against identity theft. This site provides valuable information to help you recover from identity theft and protect your identity in the future.

Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

  • Stay Vigilant: Regularly monitor your bank statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.
  • Protect Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information over the phone or online unless you are sure of the recipient's legitimacy.
  • Use Strong Passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for your accounts and change them regularly.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
  • Shred Sensitive Documents: Properly dispose of documents containing personal information to prevent dumpster diving.

At Ascent Bank, your security is our top priority. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself from scams and identity theft. If you have any concerns or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service team.

Stay safe and secure with Ascent Bank.

For further assistance or questions, feel free to contact Ascent Bank's customer service at (406) 442-8870 or email [email protected].

Ascent Bank is a member of the FDIC.