Identity theft is a very real and growing concern. Education is key to eliminating this threat.  At Parkway Bank, we work hard to remain up-to-date with the latest in security protocols and procedures.  Recently, we implemented a dual authentication sign-on process for our online banking customers. 
 
Please read the information below to learn more about common identity theft methods and scams as well as a list of tips on what you can do to safeguard your identity.

Fraud
Criminals use several methods to obtain your personal and confidential information for their own use.

1. Phishing: This occurs when a criminal sends an e-mail posing as a legitimate business, asking for your personal information.  Everything about this e-mail may appear legitimate, as well as any links they provide to their website.  Be very careful!  Phishers are experts at making their ploys appear legitimate.  Do not reply to any e-mail asking for your personal information.  Instead of using a link directly from the e-mail, open a new browser window to access their homepage.

2. Lottery Scam:  Often by mail or telephone, this occurs when someone poses as a legitimate business announcing that you have won a lottery, prize or raffle.  To collect your winnings, you must provide the thief with your personal information.   Never give your personal information over the phone or by mail.  The phone number they provide you may be a working number and appear legitimate.  Always fully investigate an organization before replying to an announcement like this.  A trustworthy institution would never solicit confidential information from its customers.

Identity Theft
Please remember that Parkway Bank will NEVER solicit your personal or confidential information over the phone, by e-mail or in a letter.  If you receive a communication from someone that claims to be a Parkway Bank representative asking for your personal information, hang up and contact us immediately at 602.765.8500.
 
By following the steps below, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to identity theft.

1. Never share your password or PIN or write them down, ever.

2. Be cautious with your trash.  Always fully shred your bills and personal information.  Throw them out in multiple trash cans in your home.

3. Keep receipts that list your full credit card number; never leave them behind after making a purchase.

4. Always report any lost or stolen debit, ATM or credit cards immediately.  If you lost your Parkway Bank Debit or ATM card, please contact us at 602.765.8500 or the 24-hour help desk at 800.535.8440.

5. Be unique with your passwords and PINs.  Do not always use the same password or PIN or make it obvious (i.e. your birth date, address or  anniversary).  Make sure your passwords include numerics (1 2 3 4…), capital letters (A B C D…), lowercase letters (a b c d…), and special characters (! @ # $...).

6. Check your credit report annually.  Use any of the following major institutions to obtain your credit score.  Report any irregularities immediately.

   1. Experian www.experian.com
   2. Equifax www.equifax.com
   3. TransUnion www.transunion.com

If you have questions or would like to hear other tips on how to safeguard your identity, please contact your local branch or call our Arizona Main Office at 602.765.8500