Below are a couple types of fraud. We will update this section and let you know of fraud in our area.

Identity Theft: Identity theft is a crime, a federal offense that occurs when someone uses your personal information without your knowledge or permission for personal gain. Unfortunately, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in 2019 there were over 650,500 formal identity theft claims filed (and many don’t file a complaint because they are too embarrassed, so this number is assumed to be much higher). Identity Theft claims accounted for over 20% of fraud reported to the FTC in 2019.

This information and other details available at: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/reports/consumer-sentinel-network-data-book-2019/consumer_sentinel_network_data_book_2019.pdf

Debit / Credit Card Theft: A form of identity theft, occurs when a criminal deceitfully gains access to and uses another person’s payment card account. This can happen to anyone, anytime. Another reason why it’s so important to review account statements often and expeditiously and report anything suspicious to us immediately. Also, it is important to keep your PIN in a safe place, and not on your debit or credit card or in your wallet.

E-mail Fraud: Another type of fraud can be happening in your email inbox or on your cell phone with text messages by requesting your passwords or personal information. Click the link below for more details and to know how to protect yourself.

• https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams

Please click on the following links to report identity theft and/or learn more:

• www.ftc.gov
• www.cfpb.gov

Some things you can do to keep your personal data safe include:

• Review bank statements or account history online often and call bank immediately if you see a discrepancy;
• Set up alerts on your accounts to receive a text in our Online Banking at www.communitybankwichita.com under eAlerts and Messages;
• Keep all personal information locked up in your home if you are keeping it, or shred it. Shred everything with your name, address, date of birth, social security number, drivers’ license number, prescription labels, medical information, utility bills, receipts (especially ATM receipts). This includes unsolicited credit card applications and most junk mail;
• Do not give card information out over the phone or online unless you initiate the exchange;
• When in doubt, don’t give your information out! Don’t let anyone rush or pressure you for your information.

If you believe you have been a victim of theft – ACT FAST! Call any business where you believe identity theft took place. Ask to speak to the fraud department and tell them you are concerned that your identity has been stolen. Close or freeze accounts if necessary.

• Order a credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com
• Place fraud alerts with credit bureaus.
  • TransUnion: www.transunion.com
  • Equifax: www.equifax.com
  • Experian: www.experian.com
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov
• File a police report. In and around Wichita, call your local police substation. If you are unsure where that is, start with their website www.wichita.gov.
• Call us! Our staff is trained and ready to help you walk through this process.

You might recognize many of the security features we utilize, such as our Online Banking SSL (secured socket layer) and password requirements. However, several other mechanisms are employed such as Anti-Virus protection and Firewalls to keep Community Bank of Wichita secure. We follow a detailed information security policy, which is subject to ongoing regulatory oversight and examination. Rest assured, we dedicate time and resources to making sure we are using the best security features.