Identity theft is a serious crime. People whose identities have been stolen can spend months or years and thousands of dollars cleaning up the mess the thieves have made of a good name and credit record. In the meantime, victims of identity theft may lose job opportunities, be refused loans and even get arrested for crimes they didn't commit. Humiliation, anger and frustration are among the feelings victims experience as they navigate the process of rescuing their identity. Community Bank of the South is proud to offer this identity theft and fraud information on our website in hopes of assisting our customers in mitigating their risks and ultimately avoiding being a victim of this serious crime.

While there are no guarantees about avoiding identity theft, it's important for you to know:

If you receive an email that requests this type of action, you should be suspicious of it and contact us immediately at (770) 436-4567. We also suggest you report suspicious emails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at www.consumer.gov/idtheft , or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT.

MINIMIZING YOUR RISK

•  Find out how your information will be used BEFORE providing it

•  Review monthly statements promptly

•  Guard your mail

•  Use passwords that are not based on any information that can be obtained easily or bought from information brokers

•  Carry only what you must

•  Never pass out information over the phone unless you initiate the call

•  Watch where you leave information around the house or office

•  Do not print Social Security Number on checks

•  Order and check your credit report every year

SECURE YOUR PERSONAL COMPUTER

•  Keep virus controls updated

•  Install spyware detection and removal software

•  Do not download files from an unknown source

•  Use a firewall

•  Keep personal data off laptops

•  Remove data from old computers before discarding

IDENTITY THEFT RESPONSE

 STEP 1

•  Contact fraud departments of each of the major credit bureaus

•  Have a “fraud alert” placed in your file

STEP 2

•  Contact creditors for any accounts that have been tampered with

•  Immediately close accounts and change PINs and passwords

STEP 3

•  File a report with your local police and the police in the community where the identity theft took place (ID Theft Affidavit)

STEP 4

•  File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission

In Conclusion:

One of the best ways to avoid Identity Theft or prevent a recurrence is to stay alert and well-educated on the many ways your identity can be stolen. A variety of publications are available from the Federal Trade Commission.

Simply click on http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/ .