Beecher, IL (May 7, 2020)—In recognition of World Password Day, First Community Bank and Trust is reminding customers of simple steps to safeguard their personal account information and what to do if they suspect they have been affected by a reported breach. 

“A ransomware attack occurs every 14 seconds in the world, but with each security measurement enacted, we’re one step closer in winning the war against cyber criminals,” said Greg Ohlendorf, President and CEO of First Community Bank and Trust. “We all have a part to play in creating a safer online experience, and with simple actions that safeguard sensitive data and monitor account activity, we can truly make a difference and ensure a more resilient internet for everyone.”

Reduce Your Risk 

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

• Limiting information disclosed—Never respond to text messages, emails or phone calls that request sensitive personal information such as your banking ID, account numbers, username, or password, even if the messages appear to originate from your bank, government agencies or officials or companies with which you have a relationship. 
• Update your password – We recommend that every customer update their password to meet new password security standards.
• Taking advantage of security features—Update your computer security software and apply software updates to your computer system, mobile devices, web browsers, and operating system to defend against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
• Monitoring account activity—Pay attention to your statements and check your credit report regularly for suspicious activity, such as unusual or unexplained charges, unknown accounts in your name, or unexpected denials on your card. Sign up for First eAlerts to track your account activity in real-time. Contact us immediately if you notice anything unusual with your accounts.

Respond to a Data Breach

In the unfortunate event of a data breach, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk: 

• Consider a security freeze on your credit report to restrict access to your credit file. 
• Set up a fraud alert, which directs banks to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing an additional card, or increasing the credit limit on an existing account. 
• Shred documents with personal or sensitive information and change your passwords. 
• Report stolen finances or identities and other cyber crime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center and to your local law enforcement and/or state attorney general.

Learn more about how to protect your digital life by visiting our online security webpage.

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.