October 25, 2019—In recognition of National Cybersecurity Month in October, First Community Bank and Trust and the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) are reminding consumers of our shared responsibility to practice strong cybersecurity habits while on the go, in the workplace and at home to avoid becoming victimized by a cyberattack. 

“Educating customers about account security and cyber threats is something we all must be conscious of if we want to reduce the risk of sensitive information being exploited for criminal use,” said Greg Ohlendorf at First Community Bank and Trust.  “We take great care in handling our customers’ sensitive information and want to equip them with practical steps they can take to help strengthen our nation’s cybersecurity ecosystem and avoid falling prey to identity theft and fraud.” 

There are steps consumers can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of identity theft or fraud. ICBA and First Community Bank and Trust encourage consumers to:

• Stay vigilant.Lookout for imposter sites and unsolicited emails. Warning signs include spelling or grammatical errors, missing contact information, and suspicious URLs or email addresses.
• Enable any authentication tools offered. Popular authentication methods include biometrics, security keys and single-use codes through apps or mobile devices. 
• Use secure passwords. Security experts recommend passwords that are 12 to 17 characters in length. It is a good idea to use three, unrelated words that are easy to remember. For example, “bicyclephoneapple”. Starting November 1^st, First Community Bank and Trust customers will be able to use passwords in this format. Remember to differentiate passwords across multiple platforms. 
• Do a system check. Purge unused apps and outdated or sensitive information stored in old files and emails and ensure all software on internet-connected devices is current.
• Manage social media settings and minimize information sharing. Just a few data points can create a pathway for exploitation by cybercriminals.
• Use WiFi judiciously: Limit the type of business conducted over open public WiFi connections, including logging in to key accounts like banking.

Consumers can also make sure their account has not been compromised by taking the following steps: 

• Read the fine print for online purchases. Often a website or application will ask for permission to save account information. Never save credit and debit card information on the merchant’s website or app. 
• Strengthen personal networks. Update your systems with the latest security software, web browser and operating systems available.
• Invest in a software security suite that offers real-time protection against existing and emerging malware, including ransomware and viruses to help protect your private and financial data.
• Monitor account activity regularly and sign up for First eAlerts. First eAlerts helps you stay up to date on your account activity in real-time. If you notice transaction irregularities, immediately report them. 
• Look for special indicators such as web addresses with https:// that denote extra measures taken to help secure your information. URLS that end in .BANK are also assigned for exclusive use by financial institutions.

“To fight the rising number of cybersecurity incidents, estimated to reach $6 trillion in damages by 2021, we must diligently defend against these bad actors,” ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey said. “Community banks proactively shore up their systems and are helping Americans arm themselves with practical tips to help strengthen security safeguards and protect their sensitive information.” 

Learn more about how to protect your digital life during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month by visiting the Stay Safe Online website. 

About First Community Bank and Trust

First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 100 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® creates and promotes an environment where community banks flourish. With more than 50,000 locations nationwide, community banks constitute 99 percent of all banks, employ nearly 750,000 Americans and are the only physical banking presence in one in three U.S. counties. Holding more than $5 trillion in assets, nearly $4 trillion in deposits, and more than $3.4 trillion in loans to consumers, small businesses and the agricultural community, community banks channel local deposits into the Main Streets and neighborhoods they serve, spurring job creation, fostering innovation and fueling their customers’ dreams in communities throughout America. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at www.icba.org.

Press Contact:
Bridget Goedke, Marketing Assistant
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246