Security

At MidSouth Bank, we're committed to protecting the financial information of our customers. In addition, there are several precautions you can take to create a safe and secure banking environment.

Always keep in mind that MidSouth Bank will never send emails or other messages that require customers to send personal information to us via email, website links or pop-up windows.

Beware of Phishing

Phishing is an online attempt to acquire personal information by someone posing to be a legitimate company. Always be skeptical if you receive an email or text message requesting your social security number, bank account numbers, debit/credit card numbers, passwords and/or PIN numbers.

Recently, emails claiming to be from the National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA) are being sent to customers alleging that a recent transaction at the recipient's bank could not be processed. A legitimate looking link is provided and asks the customer to "learn more" about the issue. By clicking on this link, malware is downloaded to the recipient's computer. This malware is able to acquire banking information by bypassing authentication software. Once this occurs, the bank information is then used to conduct fraudulent wire transfers and purchases.

To protect yourself against phishing:

• Watch out for emails, text messages or other forms of communication that urge you to act quickly because your financial account may be suspended or closed.
• Never provide your password or any other confidential information, such as your social security number, bank account numbers, debit/credit card numbers or PIN numbers in response to an email. Financial institutions will never ask you to provide personal information via email. If in doubt, contact the organization directly.
• Never click on a link from an email. Always enter the URL manually.

Protect your Computer

Invest in anti-virus, anti-spam and anti-spyware software. Make sure to keep them up-to-date. Malware, such as viruses, worms, and spyware can secretly install on your computer and collect private information. Some programs, known as keystroke loggers, can also track your keystrokes and allow passwords to be captured. Below are additional tips to protect your computer against fraudulent activity.

• Make sure the latest Windows and security updates are installed.
• Enable a personal firewall
• Avoid using public, insecure wireless networks and public computer terminals when performing sensitive online activities

Useful links and Phone Numbers

The following resources provide more information on how to protect yourself online and what to do if you become a victim of Identity Theft.

Identity Theft Resource Center: www.idtheftcenter.org

Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Site: www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft

U.S. Department of Justice Identity Theft Kit: www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/websites/idtheft.html

Social Security Administration Fraud Line: 1-800-269-0271

Privacy Right: www.privacyrights.org/identity.htm

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 or visit them online at www.equifax.com

Experian: 1-888-397-3742 or visit them online at www.experian.com

Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 or visit them online at www.tuc.com