Five Ways to Stop Identity Theft Before It Happens

By Kevin Novak, Chief Information Security Officer at Old National Bank

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the U.S., affecting millions of individuals each year. From stolen credit card numbers to fraudulent tax filings, the consequences can be financially and emotionally devastating.

The good news … You can take proactive steps to reduce your risk — and it starts with awareness.

At Old National, we take privacy and security seriously. Our systems are designed to safeguard client data with robust controls and monitoring. But whether you're an Old National client or not, these five strategies can help you spot and stop identity theft before it happens.

1. Use Long Passwords, Biometrics, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Use different passwords for each application/web portal you use
• NEVER share passwords or MFA codes with anyone you don’t trust 100%
• Use passwords at least 16 characters long
• Use a personal password manager
• Where possible use digital tokens/authenticators instead of SMS or email

2. Monitor Your Accounts Like a Hawk

• Check your bank and credit card statements weekly
• Use mobile banking alerts
• Review your credit report at annualcreditreport.com

3. Set Up Debit Card Controls and Alerts

• Enable transaction alerts
• Set spending limits
• Turn your card on/off if lost or stolen

4. Enroll in Identity Theft Protection Services

• Freeze your family’s credit with Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian
• Choose a reputable Identity Theft Protection provider
• Consider coverage for family members
• Understand what’s included

5. Recognize the Red Flags of Identity Theft

• Unexpected bills or collection notices
• Suspicious calls from debtors/creditors
• Denials for credit you didn’t apply for
• Missing mail or email confirmations
• Unusual activity on social media or email

Final Thoughts

Identity theft can happen to anyone — but with vigilance and the right tools, you can dramatically reduce your risk. At Old National, we’re committed to helping our clients stay safe. Our Security Center offers resources, alerts, and support to help you protect what matters most.