Beecher, IL (Oct. 11, 2023)—In recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, First Community Bank and Trust (FCBT) and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are reminding customers of practical steps to help safeguard their sensitive data and shield against losses in the event of a data breach or compromise. 

“In today’s environment, cyber and data security requires constant vigilance,” said Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President at FCBT. “This can feel like a daunting task, but by creating a culture of cyber and data preparedness, we can help prevent emerging threats.”

Since May 2020, 81 percent of organizations worldwide have experienced an increase in email phishing attacks. According to the FBI, phishing was the most prevalent threat in the U.S., with more than 323,000 victims in 2021.  

FCBT and ICBA encourage consumers to take the following proactive measures to protect their financial data and quickly recover in the event of a breach.

FCBT uses sophisticated technology and monitoring techniques, intricate firewalls and other methods to secure customer data. Additionally, we practice stringent privacy policies and train employees to treat confidential information with the upmost of care, meeting or exceeding federal and state mandates. But consumers can also take proactive steps to prevent cyber attacks by following these steps to:

Reduce Your Risk

While there is no foolproof way to avoid online identity theft, you can minimize your risk by:

• Limiting disclosed information: Never respond to unsolicited requests for personal information such as your banking ID, account number, username or password, even if they appear to originate from your bank, government agencies or companies with which you have a relationship.
• Using Strong and Unique Passwords: Create strong, complex passwords for online accounts and avoid reusing the same password across multiple platforms. Consider using a password manager to securely store and generate unique passwords.
• Taking advantage of security features: Enable the strongest multi-factor authentication offered by your bank, and enable it through a trusted mobile device, an authenticator app, or a secure token.
• Using Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
• Guarding Against Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of suspicious emails, messages, or calls asking for personal information. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Verify the legitimacy of any requests before providing sensitive information.

Learn more about how to protect your digital life during Cybersecurity Awareness Month by visiting the Stay Safe Online website and spreading the word on social media with the hashtag #BeCyberSmart.

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 107 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.

Press Contact:
Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® creates and promotes an environment where community banks flourish. ICBA is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education, and high-quality products and services.

With nearly 50,000 locations nationwide, community banks constitute roughly 99 percent of all banks, employ nearly 700,000 Americans and are the only physical banking presence in one in three U.S. counties. Holding more than $5.8 trillion in assets, over $4.9 trillion in deposits, and more than $3.5 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.

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