If you're using the Internet, you are sharing data. It's a fact of the modern age. That makes the precautions you take all the more important.
Heritage Bank makes safeguarding your data a top priority and encourages you to take steps to significantly reduce your risk of becoming victim of a fraud, scam or identity theft.
1. Build Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense to your accounts or to glean info necessary to steal your identity. Using the same password across multiple accounts makes it far easier for fraudsters to gain access. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols to create complex, unique passwords. Consider using a secure password manager to keep your log in information safe and organized. most smart devices include the ability to auto create unique, complex passwords then store them for future retrieval.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Strengthen your account security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. This could be a code sent via text, an authentication app, or a physical security key. Even if someone gains access to your password, 2FA provides an additional barrier to keep your personal and financial information safe. Make it a habit to enable 2FA on your email, banking, social media, and any accounts that store sensitive data.
3. Keep Your Devices Protected
Phones, tablets, and computers often contain sensitive information. Be sure to download the latest anti virus software and install software upgrades as soon as available. Also, avoid public WiFi when accessing digital banking and other sensitive accounts. These steps help prevent unauthorized access to your accounts and personal data.
4. Use Digital Banking to Monitor Fraud Attempts
Digital banking tools make it easier than ever to keep an eye on your accounts and spot unusual activity quickly. Heritage Bank’s SecureAlerts let you receive real-time notifications about transactions and balance changes - giving you immediate insight into anything that seems out of place. These alerts act as an early warning system, helping you catch potential fraud before it becomes a bigger issue.
At the same time, make sure you’re doing your part to protect your information. Never share your digital banking login details, one-time secure codes, or verification numbers with anyone—not even someone calling, emailing or texting who claims to be from your bank. Fraudsters often try to pressure or trick people into revealing this information. Keeping your credentials private and reviewing your account activity regularly are two of the most effective ways to safeguard your personal and financial information.
5. Recognize and Avoid Scams
Scammers continue to get more and more clever each year. Heritage Bank regularly publishes information our website about common scams with tips for fighting back. They will target through emails, texts, phone calls, and fake websites to trick you into revealing personal information. They’ll often look for small pieces of personal information that they can use to break into your accounts or pretend to be you. The most sensitive information includes your full name, birth date, home address, phone number and the last four digits of your social security number. Even seemingly harmless information—like your pet’s name, your high school, or where you bank—can help scammers guess security questions or craft convincing phishing messages.
For example:
- They might use your email address and birthday to reset a password.
- They may call or text you using your bank’s name, referencing recent transactions they found online to trick you into sharing secure codes.
- They could use personal details from social media to answer account recovery questions and gain access to your accounts.
Reminder: Your bank will never ask for personal banking information via email or phone. Learn more about what your bank won’t ask here.
6. Take Control of Your Digital Footprint
Oversharing online can make you vulnerable to fraud and identity theft. Adjust your social media privacy settings, avoid posting personal information, and think carefully before accepting unknown connections or clicking unfamiliar links.
When you visit a new website, you’ve probably noticed a pop-up asking if you’d like to “allow cookies.” These small files help websites remember your preferences but also track your activity. Reviewing and adjusting your browser’s cookie settings gives you more control over what data is collected.
Small changes to what you share online and how your data is tracked can go a long way in protecting your personal information.
7. Protect Your Credit and Monitor Your Accounts
Checking your bank and credit card statements frequently helps you catch suspicious activity early. Heritage Bank’s SecureAlerts also let you personalize notifications for account activity, helping you monitor spending, detect unusual transactions, and stay on top of potential fraud. You can also set debit card spending, purchase, and location limits—so if your card is lost or stolen, it can only be used within your approved parameters.
Additionally, consider keeping your credit frozen when you’re not actively applying for new credit. A credit freeze prevents new accounts from being opened in your name, giving you added protection against identity theft. You can place a freeze through the three major credit bureaus:
Equifax – https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/
Experian – https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
TransUnion – https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
Protecting your personal and financial information is essential for maintaining control of your data. Heritage Bank is committed to helping you stay informed and secure every step of the way.
