Identity Theft

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your card numbers, online credentials or other account details and uses that information to make unauthorized transactions or purchases. The combination of your name along with your Social Security number or an account number is all it takes for someone to steal your identity. 

How to Protect Yourself

  • Protect your personal information. Only give out information if you know how it will be used or shared and you've initiated the contact.
  • Never provide your Social Security number and/or driver's license number unless it is absolutely necessary.
  • Do not keep sensitive personal information, such as Social Security cards and bank account numbers, in your wallet or purse.
  • Check your credit report annually.
  • Review your bank statements and account balances frequently for any discrepancies or suspicious activity.
  • Properly dispose of personal information by shredding statements, checks, charge receipts, expired cards and anything containing personal information.

What to do if You Think Your Identity Has Been Stolen?

  • Call customer service immediately to place your account into "watch" status until you are able to make it into a branch to close your compromised account.
  • Visit your local Enterprise Bank & Trust branch location immediately to close any accounts that may have been compromised or established fraudulently.
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC maintains a database of identity theft cases used by law enforcement agencies for investigations. Filing a complaint also helps the FTC gather more information about identity theft and the problems victims are having. You may also use the ID Theft Affidavit when disputing unauthorized accounts. For more information, visit the Federal Trade Commission
  • Consider contacting the three major credit bureaus listed below to place a fraud alert on your credit file. You may also order a credit report to identify any unauthorized activity.
    • Equifax®: 1-800-525-6285
    • Experian®: 1-888-397-3742 
    • TransUnion®: 1-800-680-7289 
  • File a police report. Be sure to get a copy of your report to submit to your creditors and others that may require proof of the crime.