What we do to protect you

• Secure your information by using firewalls, anti-virus software, application security, and monitoring for intrusions and fraudulent activity.
• Use 128-bit Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption to keep your information safe when you access your account and perform transactions.
• Implement rigorous security standards that meet or exceed federal government security requirements.
   

How to protect yourself from identity theft

• Keep your home network safe by installing anti-virus software and firewalls, and make sure you install the most recent security updates for the software on your computer. Don’t connect to insecure wireless networks or “hot spots” when performing sensitive online activity.
• If you’re a small business owner, there are steps you can take to protect your business and your customers.
• Don’t use obvious passwords and pins and don’t share your log in information
• Beware of phishing and vishing. Phishers get information by tricking you into responding to an email or into visiting a fake web site. Vishers steal sensitive information over the phone. Beware of emails that have links and require immediate action or request sensitive information, and don’t share any personal information over the phone—even if you believe you recognize the number. Hang up and call the institution directly at the number on their website.
• Small business owners should learn to recognize business email scams as well.
• Shred personal and business documents before trashing them.
• Check your account balances regularly, daily if possible. First Option Online Mobile Banking offers convenient ways to stay on top of your account activity. Our ATMs  also offer the option to check your balance. 
• Keep track of your credit by getting a free copy of your credit report from annualcreditreport.com
   

What to do if you’re a victim

• Call us at 913-557-0800 if you believe your First Option card or account is impacted.
• Contact financial institutions or creditors for any accounts or cards that might have been impacted by the fraud or identity theft. Make sure to follow up in writing.
• Have Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion place a "fraud alert" on your file. Also, ask them to include a statement asking creditors to obtain your permission before opening any new accounts in your name.
• Be sure to contact other agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, Federal Trade Commission and others, as appropriate.
• Review your credit reports regularly.
• File a report with the police. Keep a copy in case creditors request it.
• Contact your broker, account manager, the Securities Exchange Commission, NASD and/or Securities Regulator if you think someone has tampered with your securities investments or brokerage account.