Identity Theft Awareness Week: Prioritize Identity Protection
You check your phone while waiting in line for coffee and see an alert for a bank charge you don’t recognize. Your stomach drops. You haven’t lost your card or shared your information. So, how did this happen?
For thousands of people each year, identity theft doesn’t start with a dramatic breach of data; it begins quietly, with stolen details being collected behind the scenes. Identity Theft Awareness Week is January 26-30, 2026. Resolve to protect your identity this New Year by learning about identity theft and take an active approach to protecting your identity.
What is identity theft?
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission. This information includes your:
- Name and address
- Credit/debit card or bank account information
- Online Banking access credentials
- Social Security number and other identifying information
- Phone number and carrier, email address, and social media accounts
- Medical insurance information
They may use this stolen information to:
- Buy things with your credit or debit cards
- Create false identification
- Impersonate you over the phone or in-person
- Steal money from your accounts
- Pass counterfeit checks
- Open utilities, such as cellular service
- File fraudulent tax returns or steal your refund
- Get medical care using your name
- Pretend to be you if they commit a crime
- Apply for jobs
Therefore, it’s important to always take steps to protect your personal and financial information from anyone who doesn’t need it. And if you’re asked to provide it—especially if you didn’t initiate the email, call, or text—be cautious about who you’re giving it to.
Want to learn more about Identity Theft Prevention?
This Identity Theft Awareness Week, we’re equipping you with the information you need to protect your identity all year round. Watch for new content all week long. Visit our Identity Theft Awareness Week webpage to learn more or drop by any office to pick up a free Identity Theft brochure.
bankESB is here to protect you.
Your security is our priority. Remember, bankESB will NEVER contact you to ask you for personal or financial information. Contact 855.527.4111 or stop by your nearest office if you think you’ve been the victim of fraud.
