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Security Center

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Security Center - Be Safe Online

At Western Bank of Clovis we are committed to educating our customers on how to better protect themselves from online fraud. As the technology evolves to better businesses and consumer’s lives, it also has improved the ability for thieves to steal personal and confidential information over the Internet. Please take some time to look over the information that we have put together for you, so that you can protect yourself from online fraud.

For additional information, please visit Homeland Security's website for tools on how to Be Cyber Smart.
https://www.dhs.gov/be-cyber-smart

Internet Security

  • Never give your Access Id or Passcode out or leave it where someone can find it and use it.
  • Create a secure Passcode.
    • Never use common dictionary words, family or pet names, dates of birth, social security numbers, or phone numbers.
    • Vary where you capitalize letters.
    • Substitute symbols for characters or numbers. Example: use a $ for s.
    • Use a phrase instead of words. Example: Mutual respect inspires a peak performance from all. = mRiapPfa.
  • Change your Passcode often.
  • Use the Exit/Log Out button to end your Internet session. Never use the “Back” button to navigate through the Internet Banking site.
  • Balance your account on a regular basis.
  • Ensure that Virus and Spyware protection is installed and frequently updated on all your computers.
  • Consider installing a firewall for your home or business network.

Phishing (pronounced fishing)

This is the latest type of email fraud. Using sophisticated technology, thieves are creating emails and websites that look authentic. They will even put logos of legitimate businesses on their webpage’s to make their site look authentic. The thieves sending this type of email are trying to obtain or “fish” personal and confidential information out of you.

Western Bank of Clovis will never ask for sensitive information such as Social Security Number, Access ID, Passcode, or Account Number, via email. If you suspect you have received a fraudulent email from Western Bank, please call Customer Service at 575-769-1975 or email us at .

Key Signs that an email may be fraudulent:
  1. There will be a sense of urgency, i.e. your account will be blocked if you don’t provide information.
  2. The email will request personal information such as account number, credit and debit card number, social security, access id, passcode, mother’s maiden name, and other sensitive information.
  3. The email may ask you to reregister for online banking.
  4. The email may have spelling and grammatical errors.
  5. These emails may include false links leading to a fraudulent website, the link may have part of the company’s name in it.
  6. Always type in a website’s address in the address line; don’t click on links in an email from someone you don’t know.
  7. Don’t open unsolicited email or click on links or documents with double extensions, i.e. “areyouthere.doc.pif”.
  8. Never open attachments with files ending in .exe, .pif, or .vbs, these extensions are for executables and are commonly dangerous files.
  9. Do not open email from someone you don’t know.

File complaints with the US Federal Trade at www.onguardonline.gov click on “File a Complaint”.

Identity Theft

Identity thefts occurs when thieves steal your social security number, account numbers, and credit card numbers then use your personal information to obtain new credit cards, car loans, or mortgages in your name. Using your social security number a thief can obtain a drivers license or passport in your name and commit crimes that you can also be blamed for. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston “It is also common for them to set up telephone or utility service in your name and not pay for it.” “Thieves have also been known to print counterfeit checks in a victim’s name.”

At Western Bank of Clovis we are dedicated to educating our customers on the signs of fraudulent activity and on how to protect yourself. Here are some tips on preventing Identity Theft.

  1. Western Bank of Clovis will never send an email requiring customers to send personal information or use pop-up windows. Do not open unsolicited emails.
  2. Carry only necessary identification; DO NOT carry your social security card. This should be kept in a safe place like a safety deposit box; along with other important papers and documents such as passports, marriage licenses, etc.
  3. Make a photocopy of the front and back of all the items you do keep in your wallet, so that if you will know what if anything is missing from your wallet and who to report stolen items to. Keep this copy in your safety deposit box.
  4. When requesting new services or filling out paperwork ask if your social security number is required for identifying purposes. You can request to use some other identifier in lieu of your social security number.
  5. Shred all personal and financial documents before putting them in the garbage. A majority of ID theft comes from thieves stealing garbage and mail.
  6. Utilize the Estatements from billers and your bank. And ask your credit card companies to stop sending the convenience checks. Reduce direct mail marketing by calling 1-888-5OPTOUT. Also notify all three of the credit bureau agencies that you don’t want your personal information shared.
  7. Always use the U.S. Postal Service mailboxes for outgoing mail.
  8. Collect your mail promptly each day or for better protection open a P.O. Box or put a lock on you home mailbox.
  9. Request your credit report from all three credit bureau agencies at least once a year. Get a FREE copy from all three reporting agencies at www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228.
For more information about Identity Theft visit the following websites: