Alerts & Safeguards

Tips From Reliable Sources
The best defense is knowledge.  For bank related information and tips from reliable sources, reference the links below.

Do Not Call Registry
https://www.donotcall.gov/

Fraud Protection
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0060-10-ways-avoid-fraud

Free Credit Report
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action

Protect Your Identity
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0005-identity-theft
https://www.irs.gov/uac/Taxpayer-Guide-to-Identity-Theft
https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Identity-Protection
https://www.ssa.gov/

Recovering From Identity Theft
https://www.identitytheft.gov/  

Safety Online
http://www.onguardonline.gov/

Monitoring Matters - Obtain Your Free Credit Reports
Monitoring your credit reports is an essential part of taking control of your finances, and they may affect your mortgage rates, credit card approvals, rent ability, or even job applications. Reviewing credit reports can also help you catch early signs of identity theft.

The three major credit bureaus that monitor your credit-related activity and your credit history are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. All three use this information to calculate your credit score. You could request your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus, but there's a better alternative.  AnnualCreditReport.com is authorized by Federal law to serve as the single source to provide free credit reports from each bureau. Below are the three ways you can obtain your free credit reports. 

• Visit www.annualcreditreport.com and fill out the online form.
• Call (877) 322-8228 and request copies.
• To send a written request by mail, download, complete, and mail the official form to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

The Annual Credit Report website offers the easiest way to obtain a copy of your credit report.  The platform is self-explanatory and does not require a credit card or payment information.  

Stay Informed
Follow the links below to obtain information from reliable Government sources.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Massachusetts Department of Public Health

City of Medford

City of Somerville

Protect Your Privacy
Follow the links below to learn how you can protect your personal information against Coronavirus related scams.

Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information

Federal Trade Commission Coronavirus Scams

Department of Homeland Security

AARP Scams and Frauds