Consumer Education Center
It is important in today’s world to make sure your identity and financial information is secure. Community Bank provides you with all the latest information and resources to help better protect you from identity theft and other fraudulent activity.
Report
- To report a lost or stolen debit card after business hours, please call 1-800-500-1044 immediately.
- To report fraudulent activity on your bank account, please call 785-440-4400 or 785-440-4455 immediately.
Current Scams
- Gift Card Scams-Beware of people asking for payment in gift cards...it's probably a scam!
- Business Email Compromise-Learn more about the scams responsible for the most financial losses reported to the FBI!
- Social Media Awareness- Social media is great, until it's NOT!
- Government Scammer Calls- Be aware of scammers and fraudulent calls that are pretending to be with the IRS.
- Fraudulent Package Delivery Scam- With so many people shopping online, package deliveries are on the rise! Scammers are taking advantage of this to fool consumers into giving out their personal information.
Protect
- Identity Theft
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Never throw away ATM receipts, bank statements, credit cards, or other items with personal information. ALWAYS SHRED!
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Never give your credit card number over the phone, unless you make the call.
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Reconcile your bank account(s) monthly!
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Keep a list of numbers to call for reporting the loss of a wallet, credit cards, etc.
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Report any unauthorized activity to your bank, credit card company, and police as soon as it is detected.
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Review your Credit Report at least once a year.
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- ATM Safety Tips- Be aware that debit card skimmers can be found on ATM's. Consider these tips to stay safe and protected while using the ATM.
- Cover your password with your hand.
- Use familiar ATM's and limit your visits.
- Check your balances frequently.
- Observe the ATM card slot and what it looks like.
- ATM Attacks- Physical and explosive attacks on ATMs are becoming more frequent. Make yourself aware of the suspicious indicators and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
- My Credit Report- Credit reports may affect your mortgage rates, credit card approvals, apartment requests, or even your job application. Request your free credit report now!
- Strong Passwords- Passwords should be "strong" and "unique". Recommendations:
- At least 8 characters, include numbers and/or symbols, uppercase/lowercase letters
- Avoid using personal information, common words, and username
- Change regularly
- Do not use same password for all accounts
- Internet Fraud- Here is some information on common internet scams to avoid and tips for your safety!
- Account Takeover- Protect yourself from account takeover:
- Install, update, and maintain good quality anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
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Keep your security questions safe.
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Maintain strong passwords.
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Watch your statements closely for any unauthorized activity.
- Internet Purchase Tips
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Know who you're dealing with – avoid purchasing from links in spam or web searches. Look for positive online reviews.
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Know what it will cost – and never send cash or allow "overpayment".
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Pay by credit card – for better protection.
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Don't email your financial information – email is not a secure transmission method.
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Keep a paper trail – keep receipts and monitor your accounts for correct withdrawals.
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Educate
- Paying for College- It’s more important than ever for students and former students to make smart decisions about financing their college education. Here is a link with some tools and resources to help you make the best decisions for you.
- Home Buyer Tips- Buying a home or considering buying, here are some tools and resources for home buyers.
- Budgeting- Need guidance and tips for your home budget? Here are some practical budgeting advice tips from some of the top experts.
- Credit Score- Here is a link with some tips for helping improve your credit score.
