What to do if someone has your bank account number

Categories: Banks

Personal information theft is the most widespread crime, contrary to movies. Identity theft and fraud cost Americans over $16 billion and affected an estimated 15.4 million individuals in 2017. The previous year's figures were $15.3 billion and 13.1 million.

Instead of stepping off the grid and doing business from your freshly created panic room, there are several simple ways to safeguard your information, such as using strong passwords and buying on secure sites. However, swift action may mitigate harm if your data is hacked.

What To Do If You Got Your Bank Account Information Stolen?

Close Or Freeze Accounts

You should freeze your bank accounts and/or cards immediately after discovering their compromised details. Cancel and request a replacement card if yours was stolen. This should protect your bank account details.

If you did not take your card, identity theft or bank account hacking might be the culprit. If so, freeze your whole account. You may do this online at many banks. If this feature is missing, go to step two.

Contact Your Bank

Your Bank must be informed of the identity theft or compromise to protect your account. Our fraud section can assist with claim submission and account security.

Claim/Report Identity Theft

You must file a claim to recover account funds. When you uncover fraudulent charges and freeze your accounts, your Bank will record your name and account numbers.

Do this immediately after discovering your data has been taken.

If you suspect identity theft, your claim may need further evidence. Not everyone who has had their bank account information taken is a victim of identity theft, but it is still necessary to report it to the FTC. Virtually filing a criminal complaint, receiving a rehabilitation plan, and learning how to implement it are all available here.

Please get in touch with your Bank's customer care number to report stolen account information after reporting identity theft.

Change Passwords And Pins

It's a good idea to update your online banking password and debit card PIN once you've frozen your accounts, reported any stolen account information or fraud and made any necessary claims. Even though this seems like the first step, the thief has already stolen your information, so stopping them from exploiting it should be your first concern. Thus, freezing your accounts is better than changing passwords and pins instantly.

Still, it's crucial for protection. Your online banking password should be unique. Change your debit card PIN too.

As much as you desire an easy-to-remember PIN, it is more straightforward for hackers and thieves to find out. In a restaurant, your wallet is taken. The thief now gets access to your personal information, including your driver's license and credit card details. Your money is easily accessible if your debit card PIN is your birthdate.

Credit Reports

This applies if your credit card or identity was taken but not your debit card or checking account. If you suspect that there may have been fraudulent activity on your credit reports, you should check them. Credit bureaus may contest fraudulent conduct.