Zoomed in on the logo of First National Bank of Litchfield number 1 logo

Banking Safety

Scrabble tiles spelling the word "safety"
  • Balance and check your account transactions often. Today, scams move faster than ever, and waiting to to review your financial history just once a month with your statement can cause one to lose precious time in case of a fraud loss.  With online banking, you can check your accounts more frequently.
  • When writing down or entering transactions in a register or tracking application, always use exact amounts!  "Rounding up" may only cause more problems narrowing down the issue if an error does occur. 
  • Notify the bank as soon as possible of any errors or discrepancies you detect.
  • Keep your personal financial information safe and secure as possible at all times. If disposing of old papers, make sure they are shredded first. Wipe any digital devices with potential financial information stored on them before disposal or recycling.
  • Only deal with companies and businesses you trust.
  • Be aware of all agreement conditions you enter into regarding automated deposits, withdrawals, and funds collection with any group or business. Always read the fine print and disclosures.
  • Only write checks (and any other official documents) in blue or black ink. Never use other colors of colored or pencil. 
  • Notify the bank as soon as possible when changing names or contact information (phone numbers, e-mail address, mailing address). We can't help you if we cant reach you!
  • Be cautious when traveling outside the country, and let the bank know the dates of when and where you will be traveling.
  • Be wary of random phone calls, e-mails, texts, or social media messages requesting personal financial information.
  • Never “post date” or "pre-sign" a check.
  • Consider getting a bank safe deposit box for important papers and cherished items.
  • Make provisions for your finances in case of ill-health or death.

  • Make your password significantly complex and do not share it with others. Don't use the same password across multiple sites.  Change passwords periodically, even if not forced too, and especially if you suspect unauthorized access.

  • Remember, online banking users with no access for a period for more than 90 days may be subject to removal without notice.

  • Make sure your devices operating systems and applicable software are up to date with the latest patches and security fixes.

  • Utilize anti-virus and malware detection software, and keep them updated.

  • Make sure any wireless networks you connect to are secure, and be wary of public WiFi.

  • Don't click suspicious links or open questionable e-mail attachments. Always contact the bank first if you are unsure.

  • Be wary of "pop-up" messages and "computer warnings."  Many are scams, even if they claim to be helping "fix" your computer or online device.

  • Use extreme caution if any third party is requesting to access to your computer or online device.

  • Secure your mobile phone or device's access.

  • Always keep your contact information up to date.  If we can't reach you, we can't help you!

  • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. If you observe or sense suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine at that time.
 
  • Visually inspect the ATM for possible skimming devices. Potential indicators can include sticky residue or evidence of an adhesive used by criminals to affix the device, scratches, damaged or crooked pieces, loose or extra attachments on the card slot, or noticeable resistance when pressing the keypad.
 
  • Be careful that no one can see you enter your PIN at the ATM. Use your other hand or body to shield the ATM keyboard as you enter your PIN into the ATM.
 
  • To keep your account information confidential, always take your receipts or transaction records with you.
 
  • Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM. Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later.
 
  • If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car.
 
  • Trust your instincts. If you suspect foul play, or if you’re in doubt about the authenticity of a machine, use a different machine or payment method.

  • Real Time Decisioning: The majority of debit card fraud is conducted through signature based transactions. This can occur when you use your Debit Card as a credit with a merchant and you sign for the transaction. To help give our customers additional peace of mind FNBL has Real Time Decisioning in its Debit Card Program. This feature will not affect PIN based transactions but could block signature based transactions in the following circumstances:

    • Using your debit card outside of the Illinois/Missouri boundaries
    • At foreign risky merchant locations
    • In foreign risky countries
    • At certain locations in the State of Georgia
    • In all foreign eCommerce (Internet) use
  • FNBL may block signature based transactions if we are aware of circumstances of fraudulent transactions elsewhere. Please remember, if your transaction is not accepted at a merchant, re-swipe your card and enter your PIN Number and your transaction should be accepted. If that doesn't work, please call us at (800) 255-2939 or (800) 324-2105. After hours call (800) 236-2442.

  • Memorize your PIN and never share it.

  • Know your limits. FNBL limits daily purchases and withdrawals for your own protection.

  • Never let anyone "borrow" your card.

  • Keep your card away from magnets.

  • Use a debit card only with merchants you trust.

  • Be aware of Authorizations that may effect your account before the transaction is processed. Authorizations can vary on amounts, sometimes being for or less than the final purchase prices, as well as length of time. It could be one day, or even a week.

Guidance and consumer advice are provided at both state and federal levels.

 •Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Guidance

 •Illinois Attorney General Identity Theft Guidance