Fraud Prevention
Simple steps to help protect yourself from fraud.
Protect the Big Three: Your Data, Credit Rating and Computer
Protect Your Personal Data
- Confetti shred documents with personal data.
- Remove yourself from junk mail lists.
- Purchase a locking mailbox.
- Question when asked for your Social Security number; it is usually NOT necessary.
- Use the EMV chip feature for credit and debit card transactions.
- Upgrade to an EMV chip card at a Washington Trust branch any time.
- Maintain up-to-date contact information with all your financial institutions so suspicious activity can be verified quickly.
Protect Your Credit Rating
- Each year, get free credit reports from all three major agencies at annualcreditreport.com.
- Review a credit report at least twice a year and submit corrections in writing immediately.
- Review credit and bank account statements each cycle for any suspicious charges or debits – large or small.
Protect Your Personal Computer
- Use comprehensive spyware, virus protection software and a firewall, which prevents unauthorized users from gaining access.
- Keep operating systems and web browsers up to date, and turn on automatic updates.
- Protect your home wireless network with a password for a secure connection.
- Make sure your PC is password protected.
- Disconnect your computer from the Internet when not in use.
Never
- Put mail with a check or personal information in a non-locking mailbox.
- Answer emails seeking personal information.
- Give personal information over the phone, unless you made the call.
Report Fraud
Call Priority Service at 800.788.4578.
To Block a Debit or Credit Card
Call Priority Service at 800.788.4578 and follow the prompts to Card Services to block your card.
WTB Mobile: Suspend your card or report it lost or stolen from within the WTB Mobile app.
Fraud Prevention
Simple steps to help protect yourself from fraud. Read More