FAQs
Find TIPS and Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive at the bank! Click on a topic below to learn more!
How to Enroll
1. Search Union State Bank Mobile in the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone.
2. "Get" or "Download" the App
3. Log In using the same Username & Password used for Online Banking
4. Answer your security question
5. Accept the Terms & Conditions
6. Exit the 'What's new' screen
Congratulations, you are now able to enjoy the convenience of Mobile Banking.
*If you are not enrolled in Online Banking, select Enroll Now and contact a Personal Banker for your PIN. Your username and password are the same as your Online Banking credentials.
Mobile Banking Features
* Check your Balance
* Transfer Funds
* Review your recent transaction activity
* Zelle®-Send money to someone with just their phone number or e-mail address
* Pay Bills - Pay your bills or transfer funds to another institution
* Mobile Deposit - Deposit checks remotely through mobile banking by simply submitting an
image of the front and back of the check.Transaction limits apply.
Tips for Mobile Deposits
* Endorse and write 'Mobile Dep Only USB Wset/WDM' on back of the check or if available check the box indicating for mobile/remote deposit and include the additional wording 'USB Wset/WDM'.
Note: Deposit will be rejected by USB if this step is missed
* Log into mobile banking and select ‘Deposit’ at bottom of screen
* Follow the prompts to input the check amount and take an image of the front and back of the check
* Deposits will show rejected or pending at your handset
If rejected try resubmitting or call (515) 462-2161 for assistance
If pending the deposit is sent to USB for approval
If USB rejects the deposit: we will call to notify you of the reason
If USB accepts the deposit: all mobile deposits require overnight processing - meaning
the deposit will not show as a pending transaction or as a part of your available balance
until the next business day
* Mobile Deposit Limits:
$5,000.00/transaction
$5,000.00 daily maximum total deposits
* Mobile Deposit Cut Off: 4:30 pm
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- Do Not Share Your Password With Anyone
- Fraudsters often contact people via email or text message claiming to be from a certain financial institution and asking them for their mobile account passwords. They may request you send your password as a reply, or they may provide a link to a website where you are supposed to confirm a password.This is a scam. A reputable financial institution will not send you an email asking for your mobile account password. Never reply to anyone with this information. Don’t hand over your username or PIN, either.
- Only Check Your Mobile Account Over Secure Internet
- Many people use public Wi-Fi connections for their smartphones to reduce the data they consume. It may be tempting to check your mobile banking account when using these connections, but resist that urge. Entering sensitive information such as your username, password, and PIN via public Wi-Fi opens you up to a possible hack.
- Connect Through the Union State Bank Mobile App
- You can use a browser to log into your account, but you’re better off downloading our Union State Bank app and logging in with it.
- Using an app offers even greater security than a browser. If your mobile app offers it, using a feature such as fingerprint ID can enhance security even more.
- Update OUR App Regularly
- Run updates on your mobile banking app when they become available. Many updates relate to security, and you want to have the most up-to-date app settings possible to keep your banking information safe.
- Log Out After Every Mobile Banking Session
- Whether you’re using the app or a browser, you should always log out of your mobile banking session when you’re done. Log out and close the mobile browser or exit the app after every use to keep your information protected. This way, if you log onto public Wi-Fi or lose your phone, you won’t leave your account vulnerable.
- Install Fingerprint ID or Facial Recognition on Your Phone
- When it comes to mobile banking, your phone’s safety correlates directly to your financial information’s safety. If you don’t have a foolproof system to keep others off your phone, you may have a difficult time keeping your financial information safe. On many smartphones, fingerprint ID or facial recognition is an option. Use it if you have it — you’ll have an added layer of security if your phone gets stolen or lost.
- Delete Apps and Other Personal Information When You Switch Phones
- When you upgrade your phone, make sure you have wiped all your personal information from the phone. It is important to remove your banking app, too, so no one knows what financial institution you use if they end up with your old phone.
- Inform Union State Bank If You Lose Your Phone
- Just as you contact Union State Bank if you misplace your debit card, let us know if your phone goes missing and follow our instructions on how to disable mobile banking. This precautionary measure can protect your financial information.
Terms and Conditions
You are required to accept our Terms and Conditions on first log in of our Online Banking Products. At time of first log in you may choose to print a copy or call our Electronic Banking Department at 515-462-2161 at anytime for a copy of our Retail Online, Business Online or Mobile Banking Terms and Conditions.
Request to Remove Mobile Banking Account
Please contact us at customerservice@usbiowa.com to remove you Mobile Banking Account or call 515-462-2161 during normal business hours.
Bank Imposter Scam
A scammer contacts you pretending to be someone from your bank. They often know some of your personal or account information, which could have been taken from social media, public records, or a data breach. The call may even look like it is coming from your bank because the scammer uses spoofing technology to disguise the number on your caller ID.
Typically, they say that there is suspicious activity on your account and that to stop it you will need to provide an access code from a text or email. They may ask for other information, such as a PIN or your username and password for your online banking or mobile app. Other times, you are told to send money to yourself to “reverse” the payment.
What you can do
Watch out for scammers who may be able to spoof a phone number so the caller ID reads “Union State Bank or USB or another version of our bank name” or one of our published phone numbers for our branches.
DO NOT share your user name, password or PIN with anyone who contacts you requesting it. Union State Bank will only send you a code when prompted by an action that you’ve initiated, such as online banking password resets. You will also receive a code when you enroll in Zelle®, but only if you originate the enrollment.
Never provide a code you receive via text or email unless you initiated the action.
Know that Union State Bank will never ask you to send money to anyone, including yourself, to “reverse a transfer”, “receive a refund” or anything similar. Remember, if a correction is needed, we have your account information and would process the correction for you.
The bank will not ask for access to your online banking, mobile banking, bill pay or Zelle® to correct any issue.
If you receive a code to authorize any amount of money (even$.00 or $.01) to be transferred or to verify a transaction you didn’t initiate, don’t enter the code in the Union State Bank TouchBanking app or share it with anyone, even if they claim to be from Union State Bank.
If you receive a suspicious phone call, hang up immediately, and if you receive a suspicious text, don’t respond. If you receive a suspicious text with a phone call immediately after you respond to the text, this is a known scam, do not answer the call. If you do answer the call and the caller claims to be Union State Bank hang up and call 1-515-462-2161 to verify the request. Always type our number when making the call, do not click on the number used in the text or suspicious phone call.
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Overdraft Protection
Important Information About Your Overdraft Protection LOC Interest charges begin to accrue immediately when you make an advance to me. Interest charges will be computed as follows:
TO FIGURE THE INTERST CHARGES FOR EACH DAY IN A BILLING CYCLE, A DAILY PERIODIC RATE IS MULTIPLIED BY THE DAILY BALANCE OF MY LOAN ACCOUNT BALANCE EACH DAY. YOU THEN ADD UP THOSE DAILY INTEREST CHARGES TO FIGURE THE TOTAL INTEREST CHARGE FOR THAT BILLING CYCLE. TO FIGURE THE DAILY BALANCE, YOU FIRST TAKE MY LOAN ACCOUNT BALANCE AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH DAY, AND ADD ANY NEW ADVANCES, AND SUBSTRACT ANY PAYMENTS OR CREDITS THAT APPLY TO DEBT REPAYMENT, AND ADD ANY UNPAID INTEREST OR OTHER FINANCE CHARGES, FEES, AND CHARGES, THIS GIVES YOU THE DAILY BALANCE. The Periodic rate used in calculating the interest Charge is 0.041095% and the corresponding Annual Percentage Rate is 15%.
In Case of Errors or Questions About Your Overdraft Protection LOC
If you think your statement is wrong, or if you need more information about a transaction on your statement, write us at Union State Bank, PO Box 110, Winterset, IA 50273 or call 515-462-2161 as soon as possible. We must hear from you no later than 60 days after we sent you the first statement on which the error or problem appeared. You can telephone us, but doing so will not preserve your rights.
In your letter, give us the following information:
1. Your name and account number.
2. The dollar amount of the suspected error.
3. Describe the error and explain, if you can, why you believe there is an error. If you need more information, describe the item about which you are unsure.
You do not have to pay any amount in question while we are investigating, but you are still obligated to pay the parts of your statement that are not in question. While we investigate your question, we cannot report you as delinquent or take any action to collect the amount you question.
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Error Resolution
In Case of Error or Questions About Your Electronic Fund Transfers **
Telephone or write us at Union State Bank, PO Box 110, Winterset, IA 50273 or 515-462-2161 as soon as you can if you think your statement or receipt is wrong or if you need more information about a transfer on the statement or receipt. We must hear from you no later than 60 days after we sent you the FIRST statement on which the error or problem appeared.
(1) Tell us your name and account number.
(2) Describe the error or the transfer about which you are unsure and explain as clearly as you can why you believe there is an error or why you need more information.
(3) Tell us the dollar amount of the suspected error.
If you tell us verbally, we may require that you send us your complaint or question in writing within 10 business days. We will tell you of our investigation within 10 business days after we hear from you and will correct any error promptly, if we need more time, however, we may take up to 45 days to investigate your complaint or question. If we decide to do this, we will credit your account within 10 business days for the amount you think is in error, so that you will have the use of the money during the time it takes us to complete the investigation. If we ask you to put the complaint in writing and we do not receive it within 10 business days we may not recredit your account.
**These procedures apply to certain consumer transactions as described in the Bank’s Electronic Fund Transfer Agreements, or other electronic fund transfer agreements. Please refer to your particular EFT Agreement for further details.
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Pre –Authorized Credits
If you have arranged to have direct deposits (e.g. Social Security) made to your consumer account at least once every 60 days from the same person or company, you may call us at 515-462-2161 to find our whether the deposit has been made.
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Tips for Safe ATM and Fuel Pump Debit Card Use
ATM SAFETY
• Use an ATM in a well-lit area
Prior to inserting your card in the ATM:
• Wiggle the card reader. If you notice something suspicious call local authority or 911.
• Cover the PIN pad with your hand when entering your PIN to guard against hidden cameras.
FUEL PUMP SAFETY
• Use a pump closest to and facing the store.
Prior to inserting your card in a fuel pump:
• Wiggle the card reader. If you notice something suspicious call local authority or 911.
• Check that security seal tape is intact. If seal is broke, let store know and pay inside.
• Cover the PIN pad with your hand when entering your PIN to guard against hidden cameras.
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E-SERVICES
ONLINE AND MOBILE BANKING
Check your balance or transfer funds from your
computer or phone. If you have text messaging
or a smart phone you can take your
USB account with you anywhere.
MOBILE DEPOSIT
Deposit checks remotey through mobile banking
by simply submitting an image of the front and
back of the check. Transactions limits apply.
Zelle®
Send money to someone you know and trust via
their phone number or e-mail address.
E-PAY
Pay your bills, transfer funds to another
institution and access Zelle® .
MY ALERTS
Receive e-mail notifications about your accounts.
Set up alerts for: Pending Transactions, Low
Balance, Daily Balance & Checks Cleared.
ACTIVITY MANAGER
Create a budget by itemizing your expenses and
income. Plus export your statements to excel.
BRELLA
Receive Fraud Alerts 24/7. Block and unblock
your card. Access your account balance and
locate ATM’s nationwide.
Business E-Services
BUSINESS ONLINE
Online access to your Business Accounts to check your balance,
review recent transactions and transfer between accounts.
Additional options include ACH Services and Merchant Capture.
BUSINESS MERCHANT CAPTURE
Deposit checks remotely by simply scanning an
image through Business Online.
Tips for Smart Internet Banking
Union State Bank Online Banking is a fast and convenient way to check your balance, transfer funds or pay bills. Internet banking makes all banking functions accessible through a few clicks. Due to the risk of phishing (fraudulent means of attaining your confidential banking information) we are providing the following security tips.
Change your password regularly
The first time you login to your internet banking account, you will need to use the password provided by the bank. However, you need to change this password in order to keep your account safe. In addition, keep changing your password at regular intervals, we recommend at minimum every 90 days. More importantly, keep the password confidential at all times.
Do not use public computers to login
Avoid logging in to your bank account at common computers in cyber cafes or libraries. These are crowded places, and there are more chances of your password being traced or seen by others. If you have to login from such places, make sure you logout of your access, clear the cache and browsing history, and delete all the temporary files from the computer. Also, never allow the browser to remember your ID and password.
Do not share your details with anyone
USB will never ask for your confidential information via phone or email. So whether you get an apparent phone call from the bank or an email requesting your details, do not give out your login information. Use your login ID and password only on the official login page of the bank, which should be a secure website. Look for 'https://' in the URL when logging in; it means that the website is secure.
Check your accounts regularly
Check your account after making any transaction online. Verify whether the right amount has been deducted from your account. If you see any discrepancies in the amount, inform the bank immediately.
Always use licensed anti-virus software
To protect your computer from new viruses, ensure that you always use licensed anti-virus software. Pirated versions of anti-virus softwares may be available for free, but they may fail to protect your computer from new viruses prevalent in the online world. In addition, you will get notifications for updates in the software periodically. Make sure that you keep your anti-virus updated, so that your confidential information is always protected.
Log out after every Online Banking Session
You should always log out of your mobile session when you’re done. Log out and close your session after every use to keep your information protected.
Disconnect the internet connection when not in use
Most broadband users do not disconnect the internet connection on their computer when they are not using it. Malicious hackers can access your computer via an internet connection and steal your confidential banking information. To keep your data protected, ensure that you disconnect from the internet when not in use.
Type your internet banking URL
It is safer to type our web address in the address bar of the browser than clicking on links given in an email. There is a chance of fraudsters sending emails with fraudulent websites links that are designed exactly like the bank’s original website. Once you enter your login details on such a website, they may be used to access your account and steal your money. While logging on, check for 'https://' in the URL and ensure that it is your bank’s authentic website.
Information Security Tip - Legitimate businesses will not request personal or detailed information from you through email. Beware of any email you receive requesting payments, money transfers, your PIN, password, or similar access information for credit cards, banks, or other financial accounts. Be sure to Verify the source of the email before taking any action and Never click on a link from an unidentified source.
How to Retrieve your E-Statement
Use the following link to retrieve your statement. https://usbiowa.com
2. Login to Online Banking
3. Choose the account by clicking the green hyperlink account name above the account number
4. Click on the "Documents" tab
5. Use the Drop Down arrow to Select the “Archived” Statement
6. Select the Date Range or use the dates that auto fill
7. Click Submit
8. Click on the desired Statement in the Available Documents section
You may save a copy of this statement as a separate file on your computer or as a paper copy.
Zelle®
Zelle®. A fast, safe and easy way to send and receive money with friends, family and others you know and trust. Best of all, money arrives typically within minutes between enrolled users.2
Getting started is easy.
1. Navigate to Pay Bills in online banking on a PC or Transfer & Pay in the TouchBanking App
2. Select Send Money with Zelle®
3. Accept terms and conditions
4. Choose the account you want to use
5. Review and start sending money!
Important Reminders:
- Scheduled or recurring P2P payments will be shifted over to Zelle® with the following exceptions:3
- Any scheduled P2P payments over $1,000 will be cancelled due to a change in limits.
- Any scheduled P2P payments using the Charitable Giving option will be cancelled.
- Ask your contacts to enroll with Zelle® before you send them money – this will help them get your payment more quickly.
- For a full list of participating banks and credit unions live with Zelle® go to Zellepay.com. If your recipient’s bank isn’t on the list, don’t worry! The list of participating financial institutions is always growing, and your recipient can still use Zelle® by downloading the Zelle® app for Android and iOS.
- To receive payments, please ask the Sender to use Zelle® to send money. If the sender’s bank does not offer Zelle®, they can easily enroll in the Zelle® app (available in the App Store or GooglePlay) with a U.S.-based VISA® or Mastercard debit card.
If you have any questions, or are not able to access Bill Payment please contact Customer Service at 515-462-2161.
Copyright © 2021 Union Sate Bank. All rights reserved. Data charges may apply. Check with your mobile phone carrier for details. Zelle and the Zelle related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC and are used herein under license.
1Must have a bank account in the U.S. to use Zelle®.
2Transactions typically occur in minutes when the recipient’s email address or U.S. mobile number is already enrolled with Zelle®.
3Scheduled or recurring payments sent directly to your recipient’s account number (instead of an email address or mobile number) are made available by Union Sate Bank but are a separate service from Zelle® and can take 1 - 3 business days to process.
Union Sate Bank
611 W Hwy 92
Winterset, IA 50273
515-462-2161
Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.
What this means to you:
Beginning October 2017, Visa’s VAU service will update the consumer’s Visa debit card information with participating merchants to process recurring cardholder payments. The VAU service is designed to prevent debit card transactions from declines due to outdated information at the merchant level. VAU will help prevent automatic payments from being declined due to a change in the card expiration date, a lost or stolen card, or a new debit card number. If you want VAU, no action is required; enrollment is automatic by Visa. If you want to exclude your debit card from VAU or have any questions regarding this service, please call USB at 515-462-2161.
Debit Card Dispute Service
Call SHAZAM at 833-288-1126 – 24 hour service to dispute a transaction on your debit card
*SHAZAM is our debit card processor*
If you don’t recognize a transaction, it’s a good idea to check the following before filing a dispute:
Did another authorized person on your account (like a spouse or child) make this transaction?
Is this a purchase you made recently for future use, like travel plans?
Is this an annual or monthly payment, like a magazine subscription you may have forgotten?
Did you make a charitable contribution?
When you report a dispute, the following information may be helpful to have on hand:
You will be asked to give your name and card number.
If applicable, the date you contacted the merchant along with the merchants response and name of person you spoke to.
Tracking numbers, contracts and/or service agreements if available.
Date you returned item(s) or canceled service along with cancellation/confirmation numbers, if applicable.
How the dispute process works:
As the primary cardholder, you’re responsible for filing a dispute and providing details about the transaction. Once your call is received, SHAZAM will open a claim.
SHAZAM dispute representatives will begin an investigation. Most claims are resolved within 5-10 business days. If more time is needed to investigate the claim, we’ll apply a temporary credit to the account. Estimated time frames will be provided at the time of your call.
As the dispute process continues, you’ll be asked to provide supporting documents and signatures.
SHAZAM will contact you following the investigation with the final decision.
Electronic Funds Transfer Disclosure available on request
Brella
Make the switch to Brella
Same app. New name.
SHAZAM BOLT$ is now Brella™.
This Saturday, July 4, 2020, the BOLT$ app and web portal will shut down for good.
If you haven’t switched from BOLT$ to Brella yet, now’s the time! If you've already migrated to Brella, thanks for making the switch – no further action needed.
iOS® users: Download Brella from the App Store at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brella-cardmanager/id571486405. You can also use the Brella web portal at https://www.shazambrella.net.
Android™ users: Download Brella from the Google Play store at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.shazam.brella. You can also use the Brella web portal at https://www.shazambrella.net.
Thanks for using Brella to manage your debit card. If you have any questions about this change, please contact your financial institution or email the SHAZAM help desk at support@shazambrella.net.
Shazam Bolt$ changed to Brella in May
iOS users: Your device will automatically update to Brella. If your device has any special settings that restrict automatic updates, visit the App Store and update.
Android users: You’ll need to download Brella as a new app. Visit the Google Play Store, search “Brella Card Manager” and download the Brella app. Once you install Brella, you can delete the BOLT$ app.
All BOLT$ usernames, passwords, registered cards and app functions will continue to work in Brella as they do today. You’ll be asked to review and accept an updated Terms of Use Agreement as part of the update.
New Instructions will be available once the migration to the Brella App is complete.
THE MOBILE APP THAT ALERTS YOU OF POTENTIAL FRAUD!
1. Download Brella in the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone
2. Or visit https://www.shazambrella.net from a PC to enroll without the app
3. Tap or Select ‘Register’
4. Use either of the following methods to enter your card number and expiration date:
•Tap Capture Card to take a picture of your debit card using the device's camera. (The app must have access to the device's camera.)
• Enter the card number and expiration date manually.
After you enter the card number and expiration date, the ESign
Agreement will appear. Read the agreement and tap
Next to continue cardholder enrollment.
Use either of the following methods to enter your card number and expiration date:
•Tap Capture Card to take a picture of your debit card using the device's camera. (The app must have access to the device's camera.)
• Enter the card number and expiration date manually.
After you enter the card number and expiration date, the ESign
Agreement will appear. Read the agreement and tap Next to continue
cardholder enrollment.
If you receive a Card Not Eligible message, you can add a checking or savings account to receive money from other users:
•Tap Add Account.
•Select the account type.
•Indicate whether the account is for personal or business use.
•Enter the routing number manually, then re-enter it below.
•Enter the account number manually, then re-enter it below.
•Tap Next.
Note:If you don’t know your routing or account number, tap Where do I find this info? above the Routing Number entry field. This link displays an image of a check that maps out where each number is located.
5. Confirm the card is yours by entering additional information associated with your card. The information you enter depends on your financial institution's BIN settings.
•Plastic-based authentication: Enter the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• PIN-based authentication: Enter a phone number where
you can be reached now.
Verify the card number and expiration date and tap Next to
continue. If the financial institution uses PIN-based
authentication, an automated system calls the number that you
entered. When you receive this call, enter the card's PIN when
prompted.
Note:If the information that you enter doesn’t match the information on file with SHAZAM, you are prompted to enter the correct information. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, you will not be able to try again until midnight.
6. Enter the following information for the user profile and tap Next.
•Username
•Password, Confirm Password
Passwords must be between 5 and 32 characters long. Passwords must also contain at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one special character. Your password expires if you do not change it within 365 days. Passwords can consist of only letters, numbers, and the following special characters.
Comma [,]•At [@]•Tilde [~]•Pound [#]•Dollar [$]•Percent [%]•Underscore [_]•Exclamation point [!]•Ampersand [&]•Dash [-]•Caret [^]•Asterisk [*]•Left parenthesis[(]•Right parenthesis [)]Enter the following information for the user profile and tap Next.
The app does not allow invalid characters to be entered for a password.
•Primary Email
The primary email address must be unique. For example, a husband and wife who share an email address can establish only a single Brella account.
• Mobile Number
Note:An asterisk (*) indicates a mandatory field that needs to be entered.
7. Enter the following details and tap Next.
•First Name, MI (Middle Initial), Last Name
•Address
•City
•State
•Zip Code Step Screen
8. Tap Done to return to the login screen. SHAZAM sends you an email at your primary email address to confirm that the email address is valid.
Tap the activation link in the email to activate your account before you login for the first time.
If you attempt to log in without tapping the activation link in the email, the app prompts you to activate your account before you proceed, and SHAZAM sends you another email at your primary address with a new activation link. You can log in successfully only after tapping the activation link in the latest email from SHAZAM.
9. Click on the following link for more information and instructions on all the Brella features.
Brella User Guide
Your debit card activity will now be monitored and you will receive alerts for transactions that meet the criteria you selected.
Text Fraud Alerts
Dear valued cardholder,
Keeping your account safe and secure is our highest priority. We partner with SHAZAM, our debit card processor, to implement a fraud management solution powered by FICO® Falcon® to help protect your debit card against fraudulent activity.
We provide Text Fraud Alerts as part of our debit card protection program. You’ll receive text alerts when suspicious activity is detected on your Union State Bank debit card. If you receive a “fraud alert,” reply Yes or No to confirm or deny the activity. If you reply No (the activity is fraudulent), you’ll quickly receive a follow up text to let you know that a SHAZAM fraud specialist will call you soon to help protect your account. We’ll also automatically block your debit card to prevent any additional fraudulent activity.
If you reply Yes (the activity was legitimate), you can continue to use your debit card as normal. If you don’t reply to the text, or your phone number is not a mobile number, we’ll attempt to reach you via automated voice call.
Text message alerts from: 72718
Automated phone calls from: 855-219-5399
Make sure to save or update these numbers to your contacts so you don’t miss any alerts. This added protection to your debit card is automatic and text message alerts are free. To ensure we can reach you promptly if fraudulent activity is suspected, we’ll need to have your current contact information on file including phone number(s) and address. Please contact us if you have any changes in this information or to verify the current information on file. We’ll keep your information completely confidential.
If you have any questions, or ever see a suspicious transaction on your debit card, please call Union State Bank at 515-493-9946. Always use caution when providing your debit card information and contact us immediately if you suspect your debit card has been stolen or compromised.
Thank you!
Union State Bank
Important: We will never request card or account information via text, phone or email.
ID THEFTSMART
Q. How much is ID TheftSmartTM?
ID TheftSmart is $5.45 per statement cycle per account for single enrollment. There is $4.45 fee per statement cycle per account for each additional program enrollment.
Q. What is ID TheftSmart™?
ID TheftSmart provides comprehensive identity restoration in addition to continuous credit monitoring to safeguard your identity.
Q. Does ID TheftSmart identity restoration cost extra?
No. Identity theft restoration services are available at no additional charge for all ID TheftSmart members in good standing.
Q. How long does identity restoration take?
Identity restoration can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more, depending on how extensive the identity fraud is and how in-depth our investigators must go to get it corrected. Your case isn’t closed until your restoration is complete to your satisfaction and we receive verification that your issue is resolved.
Q. How does ID TheftSmart identity restoration work?
If you suspect you’ve become a victim of identity theft, simply call the toll-free number on your ID TheftSmart membership card. Our professional licensed investigators will do most of the difficult work needed to restore your name and credit to pre-theft status as accurately, completely, and quickly as possible.
You’ll be assigned a single licensed investigator for your entire case who will begin your identity theft restoration process. In order to receive the full benefit of enhanced identity theft restoration, you’ll be asked to sign and return a limited power of attorney that provides your investigator the legal rights to become your advocate and work on your behalf.
Q. Does ID TheftSmart prevent identity theft?
No identity theft program or service can guarantee you’ll never be a victim of identity theft. What ID TheftSmart can deliver is continuous credit monitoring that alerts you as soon as there is questionable credit activity in your name, such as applying for a new credit card or loan, a change of address, etc. The earlier you discover suspicious activity, the less damage the identity thief can do. You’ll also receive an up-to-date credit report and credit score with detailed analysis at no extra charge.
Q. How do identity thieves steal my personal information?
Identity thieves access your personal information in a number of ways such as stealing mail, rummaging through trash, and stealing a wallet or purse—or even getting it via email or phone by posing as legitimate company claiming there’s a problem with your account. Others access personal information you share on the Internet or steal private information directly from organizational and company databases.
- Travel Tips
*Carry as little cash as possible; use debit and credit cards or prepaid cards whenever possible.
*Carry only necessary information with you. - *Dress conservatively, wearing only a minimum of jewelry.
- *Don’t carry an expensive camera on a strap around your neck.
- *Avoid walking anywhere alone whenever possible.
- *Avoid high risk areas.
- *Never get into an unmarked taxi.
- *Never leave money, cameras, computers or other valuables in a hotel room.
Debit Card Travel Tips
*Notify us of your travel plans and contact method prior to your travels.
*Enroll your debit card in SHAZAM BOLT$.
*Always keep your card in a safe secure place.
*Memorize your PIN-do not write it down.
*Use your PIN whenever possible-this is the more secure method and causes fewer issues or declines.
*Use ATM’s in high traffic, well lit areas or financial institutions.
- *Protect your PIN-hide keystrokes from onlookers.
- *Carry an alternate means of payment in case of fraud issues.
- *Be cautious when using your card at restaurants where they take your card to process the payment do not leave receipts behind.
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Cyber Security
Protect your personal information such as social security number and bank account number(s). Be cautious of email (phishing), voice or phone (vishing), and text message (mishing) scams asking for personal or financial information.
Collect your mail as soon as it is delivered, and examine all financial statements carefully. Remember to shred or destroy documents and paperwork containing personal information before discarding. Contact Union State Bank if a statement or expected debit card does not arrive. Enroll in online banking and e-statements to prevent mail fraud and to monitor your account on a regular basis.
Be leery of the word “FREE”. Any time an internet order asks for a debit/credit card number, you could get a hidden charge, or recurring fee charged to your debit card. (This is in the fine print one may not read). Timing of “Free sample” delivery may not give you enough time to sample the product and discontinue future shipments prior to receiving a future charge.
Click out of pop-ups. If it sounds too good to be true, it is.
Please Do Not…
Give out your bank account information over the phone or internet.
Keep in mind, if you call us, Union State Bank may ask you security questions to verify your identity.
Give remote access to your home computer when contacted by an unknown source.
- The caller is seldom from a reputable source, their motive is to gain access to your computer and scam you; often resulting in large monetary loss.
Use your debit card for recurring purchases.
Banks cannot negotiate stop payments or returns on debit card transactions.
Use caution and reputable merchants when using you debit card for online purchases.
- Union State Bank requires Verified by VISA enrollment with participating merchants to help prevent debit card fraud.
Please Do…
Download our Mobile App and Shazam Brella App:
- Union State Bank’s mobile app gives you instant access to all of your transactions in real time, making it easy to detect fraud sooner.
- Debit card customers should use Shazam Bolt$ app to verify transactions. It is the quickest way to detect unauthorized transactions via your smart phone.
General Tips & Advice – Courtesy of www.dhs.gov/stopthinkconnect
Practice good online safety habits with these tips and advice.
Keep a Clean Machine
Keep security software current: Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
Automate software updates: Many software programs will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that’s an available option.
Protect all devices that connect to the Internet: Along with computers, smart phones, gaming systems, and other web-enabled devices also need protection from viruses and malware.
Plug & scan: “USBs” and other external devices can be infected by viruses and malware. Use your security software to scan them.
Protect Your Personal Information
Secure your accounts: Ask for protection beyond passwords. Many account providers now offer additional ways for you verify who you are before you conduct business on that site.
Make passwords long and strong: Combine capital and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols to create a more secure password.
Unique account, unique password: Separate passwords for every account helps to thwart cybercriminals.
Write it down and keep it safe: Everyone can forget a password. Keep a list that’s stored in a safe, secure place away from your computer.
Own your online presence: When available, set the privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level for information sharing. It’s ok to limit how and with whom you share information.
Connect With Care
When in doubt, throw it out: Links in email, tweets, posts, and online advertising are often the way cybercriminals compromise your computer. If it looks suspicious, even if you know the source, it’s best to delete or if appropriate, mark as junk email.
Get savvy about Wi-Fi hotspots: Limit the type of business you conduct and adjust the security settings on your device to limit who can access your machine.
Protect your $$: When banking and shopping, check to be sure the sites is security enabled. Look for web addresses with “https://” or “shttp://”, which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. “Http://” is not secure.
Be Web Wise
Stay current. Keep pace with new ways to stay safe online: Check trusted websites for the latest information, and share with friends, family, and colleagues and encourage them to be web wise.
Think before you act: Be wary of communications that implores you to act immediately, offers something that sounds too good to be true, or asks for personal information.
Back it up: Protect your valuable work, music, photos, and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.
Be a Good Online Citizen
Safer for me more secure for all: What you do online has the potential to affect everyone – at home, at work and around the world. Practicing good online habits benefits the global digital community.
Post only about others as you have them post about you.
Help the authorities fight cybercrime: Report stolen finances or identities and other cybercrime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov) and to your local law enforcement or state attorney general as appropriate.
Scam Protection Information
How to Avoid a Scam Courtesy of FTC.gov
Recognizing these common signs of a scam could help you avoid falling for one.
Four Signs That It’s a Scam
1. Scammers PRETEND to be from an organization you know.
Scammers often pretend to be contacting you on behalf of the government. They might use a real name, like the Social Security Administration, the IRS, or Medicare, or make up a name that sounds official. Some pretend to be from a business you know, like a utility company, a tech company, or even a charity asking for donations.
They use technology to change the phone number that appears on your caller ID. So, the name and number you see might not be real.
2. Scammers say there’s a PROBLEM or a PRIZE.
They might say you’re in trouble with the government. Or you owe money. Or someone in your family had an emergency. Or that there’s a virus on your computer.
Some scammers say there’s a problem with one of your accounts and that you need to verify some information.
Others will lie and say you won money in a lottery or sweepstakes but have to pay a fee to get it.
3. Scammers PRESSURE you to act immediately.
Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. If you’re on the phone, they might tell you not to hang up so you can’t check out their story.
They might threaten to arrest you, sue you, take away your driver’s or business license, or deport you. They might say your computer is about to be corrupted.
4. Scammers tell you to PAY in a specific way.
They often insist that you pay by sending money through a money transfer company or by putting money on a gift card and then giving them the number on the back.
Some will send you a check (that will later turn out to be fake), tell you to deposit it, and then send them money.
What You Can Do to Avoid a Scam
Block unwanted calls and text messages. Take steps to block unwanted calls and to filter unwanted text messages.
Don’t give your personal or financial information in response to a request that you didn’t expect. Legitimate organizations won’t call, email, or text to ask for your personal information, like your Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers.
If you get an email or text message from a company you do business with and you think it’s real, it’s still best not to click on any links. Instead, contact them using a website you know is trustworthy. Or look up their phone number. Don’t call a number they gave you or the number from your caller ID.
Resist the pressure to act immediately. Legitimate businesses will give you time to make a decision. Anyone who pressures you to pay or give them your personal information is a scammer.
Know how scammers tell you to pay. Never pay someone who insists you pay with a gift card or by using a money transfer service. And never deposit a check and send money back to someone.
Stop and talk to someone you trust. Before you do anything else, tell someone — a friend, a family member, a neighbor — what happened. Talking about it could help you realize it’s a scam.
Report Scams to the FTC
If you were scammed or think you saw a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission.
MORE Signs of Scams
- 1. Offer Seems Too Good to be True
- 2. Unsolicited Communication
- 3. Request for Private Information
- 4. Grammatical Errors
- 5. Request for Fees
- 6. Suspicious Email Domains
- 7. Unusual Company or Individual Name
- 8. Suspicious or No Physical Address
- 9. Request for Access to your Computer
- 10. Untraceable Payment Method (Cash, Reloadable Debit Card, Gift Card)
Questions to Ask yourself before giving money to an individual, company or organization:
If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, contact a USB personal banker immediately at 515-462-2161 before you proceed with any instructions you are given.
- 1. Did they ask me for my personal information such as SS#, Birthdate or Bank Account information?
- 2. Did someone contact me with an offer for Free money, winnings, fast cash, or to pay a debt?
- 3. Did they claim to work for a government agency or well-known organization?
- 4. Did the ask me to pay the processing fees or taxes before the prize is disbursed?
- 5. Did they send me an overpayment and now want me to return a portion of the Funds?
- 6. Did they ask me to deposit money into an account at a Bank or Credit Union on their behalf?
- 7. Did they ask me to open a transfer account at my bank?
- 8. Did they give me advice on how to answer questions my Banker might ask, to avoid suspicion?
- 9. Did they ask for access to my computer?
- 10. Did they claim to be a family member with an emergency?
- 11. Did they ask me to keep the call and request a secret?
- 12. Did they threaten me with adverse action if I do not comply with their request?
- 13. Am I being pressured to act quickly?
Additional questions to consider
- 14. Do I know the individual or company that I am paying?
- 15. Did I confirm the identity of the individual or company that I am paying by calling a confirmed number from a legit source? (Do not return a call to the number on your caller ID or to a number the caller provided)
- 16. Do I fully understand the agreement or contract they are asking me to verbally agree or sign?
- 17. How are they asking me to deliver the payment? (Cash, blank check, reloadable debit card or gift cards are signs of a scam)
- 18. Have I shared this information with a family member or friend? (Why not?)
Take Steps to Protect Yourself
- 1. Hang up the phone if it is an unsolicited call and you do not recognize the caller.
- 2. Don’t press number keys, as that may confirm to the source of a robocall that it has reached a valid number.
- This could cause you to receive more calls.
- 3. If a live or recorded voice asks you to “provide”, “confirm” or “verify” financial or personal information, hang up.
- If concerned call is valid hang up and do a call back with a number from a legit source.
- Do not use the number provided by caller ID or provided by the caller via phone or email.
- 4. Be suspicious of secretive schemes, or requests to initiate wire transfers or withdraw large amounts of cash no matter what the caller is promising.
- 5. Never sign any documents you don’t completely understand without first consulting an attorney, trusted family member or close friend.
- 6. Be leery of paying individuals or companies up front or in cash for a future service. Especially if you have not researched their service performance or they are unknown to you.
- 7. Be suspicious of a prize, loan or investment that sounds too good to be true and NEVER pay a fee to receive prizes or gifts.
- 8. Consult with someone you trust before making a large purchase or investment and never allow yourself to be pressured or intimidated into immediate decisions.
- 9. Do not allow an unsolicited caller access to your computer.
- 10. Add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry (1-888-382-1222 or www.donotcall.gov). Check with The Better Business Bureau of Iowa for Accredited Business and Ratings at www.bbb.org/iowa or call 1-800-222-1600.
- 11. Go to www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov, www.ftc.gov/consumer, www.usa.gov/consumer or www.fbi.gov/scams-and-safety for more information or to report a scam.
*Union State Bank will not call you to “verify” personal or financial information*
Consumer Protection Offices
City, county, regional, and state consumer offices offer a variety of important services. They might mediate complaints, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate professional service providers, provide educational materials and advocate for consumer rights. To save time, call before sending a written complaint. Ask if the office handles the type of complaint you have and if complaint forms are provided.
State Consumer Protection Offices
Iowa Office of the Attorney General
Website: Iowa Office of the Attorney General
E-mail: consumer@iowa.gov Phone Number: 515-281-5926 Toll Free: 1-888-777-4590
National Do Not Call Registry
You can stop most telemarketing calls by adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry (1-888-382-1222 or www.donotcall.gov). If you registered your landline or wireless number with the National Do Not Call Registry, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) forbids commercial telemarketers from calling you, subject to certain exceptions. If you have added your number to the National Do Not Call Registry, be skeptical of any telemarketing robocall you receive.
Most Popular Scams
Get the information you need to protect yourself from being a victim of the latest scam tactics:
For the following and additional information visit USA.Gov
Advance fee scams - Don't fall for claims that you have won a lottery, prize, or can invest in a great opportunity, if you have to pay a fee or taxes in advance.
Chain letters - These letters promise to help you get rich quickly if you participate and forward the letter on to your friends and family.
Charity scams - Scammers take advantage on your willingness to help people in need and charitable causes. They may collect your donation and keep it for themselves instead of using it to help those in need.
Coupon scams - Coupons can be a helpful way to save money on your purchases. But beware of illegitimate offers.
Dating scams - Scammers may create fake profiles on online dating sites and express interest in you, just so he or she can convince you to send them money.
Debt relief scams - Some scammers hope that you are as eager to get rid of your debt as they are to scam you out of your money. Know the warning signs so you won't be their next victim.
Free security scans - Don't be tricked by messages on your computer screen that claim that your machine is already infected with a virus. The realistic, but phony, security alerts exploit your fear of online viruses and security threats.
Government grant scams - Despite ads that say you qualify for a government grant, these are often scams. Be wary of responding to offers, email, or claims that use government agency names.
Health product scams - Be wary of trusting all claims. Take time to get the facts about a product first.
International financial scams - A variety of scams offer entries into foreign lotteries or international investment opportunities.
IRS-related scams - Be careful with email that is supposedly from the IRS. Scammers try to gain access to your financial information in order to steal your identity and assets.
Job scams - Be wary if you have to pay money or supply your credit card number to a company to apply for a job. Some scammers make big promises with work at home opportunities, but these may require you to engage in illegal activities.
Jury duty scams - Someone calls pretending to be a court official who threatens that a warrant has been issued for your arrest because you failed to show up for jury duty.
Mass Mailing Fraud - You receive a letter promising wealth or good fortune.
Military romance scams - Someone falsely claims to be a member of the U.S. military, stationed in a combat zone. This false soldier gets in an online relationship with someone on social media or a dating website, and asks for money for fake service-related expenses.
Phantom debt scams - Beware of letters and calls, supposedly from "debt collectors" or "court officials". These scammers make threatening claims requiring you to pay money that you don't owe.
Pyramid schemes - These investments offer big profits, but really aren't based on revenue from selling products. Instead, they depend on the recruitment of more investors.
Scams that use the names of the FBI or CIA - Avoid falling victim to email schemes involving unsolicited email supposedly sent by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and/or Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The email appears to be sent from email addresses such as mail@fbi.gov, post@fbi.gov, admin@fbi.gov, and admin@cia.gov.
Service members or veteran scams - Scammers target bogus offers of government resources or financial services to trick active duty military personnel and veterans out of their money.
Smishing, vishing, and phishing - All three of these scams rely on you replying to an email, phone call or text with personal information, such as your bank account or credit card numbers.
Social Security imposter scams - Someone calls you, posing as a Social Security investigator. This person claims that there is a problem with your social security account. They then tell you to call another number to resolve the problem.
Subpoena scams - Scammers send bogus email, supposedly from a U.S. District Court, stating that you have to come to court. These messages are fake and may contain links that are harmful to your computer.
Text message spam - Not only can text message spam be annoying and cost you money on your mobile phone bill, but the messages are often for scams.
Cashier’s check or check fraud - Scammers take advantage of the trust people place in cashier's checks to steal money from your account or to avoid paying you for goods and services. It is difficult to detect fraudulent cashier's checks. When you deposit a fraudulent check into your account, the law requires your bank to make the funds available within a specific period of time even if the check has not yet cleared through the banking system. Once the check is returned unpaid, your bank, generally, can reverse the deposit to your account and collect the amount of the deposit from you.
For the following and additional information visit FBI.Gov
Advance Fee Schemes -An advance fee scheme occurs when the victim pays money to someone in anticipation of receiving something of greater value—such as a loan, contract, investment, or gift—and then receives little or nothing in return.
Business Fraud -Business fraud consists of activities undertaken by an individual or company in a dishonest or illegal manner designed to be advantageous to the perpetrating person or establishment.
Counterfeit Prescription Drugs -Counterfeit prescription drugs are illegal, fake medicines that may be hazardous to your health.
Credit Card Fraud -Credit card fraud is the unauthorized use of a credit or debit card, or card number, to fraudulently obtain money or property.
Fraud Against Seniors -Senior citizens should be especially aware of fraud schemes targeting their lifestyle and savings and follow a series of tips to protect themselves and their family members from fraud.
Fraudulent Cosmetics and “Anti-Aging” Products -The Internet has given consumers widespread access to health and beauty products, including "anti-aging" products that they do not know are fake.
Funeral and Cemetery Fraud -Regulations for prepaid funeral services vary from state to state, providing a window of opportunity for unscrupulous operators to overcharge expenses and list themselves as beneficiaries.
Health Care Fraud or Health Insurance Fraud -The FBI is the primary investigative agency involved in the fight against health care fraud, with jurisdiction over both federal and private insurance programs.
Identity Theft -Identity theft occurs when someone assumes your identity to perform a fraud or other criminal act.
Internet Auction Fraud -Consumers are strongly cautioned against entering into Internet auction transactions with subjects exhibiting irregular behavior or making odd payment requests.
Internet Fraud -Internet fraud is the use of Internet services or software with Internet access to defraud victims or to otherwise take advantage of them.
Investment Fraud -Investment fraud is an offer using false or fraudulent claims to solicit investments or loans, or providing for the purchase, use, or trade of forged or counterfeit securities.
Letter of Credit Fraud -Letters of credit frauds are often attempted against banks by providing false documentation to show that goods were shipped when, in fact, no goods or inferior goods were shipped.
Market Manipulation (“Pump and Dump”) Fraud -This scheme—commonly referred to as a “pump and dump”—creates artificial buying pressure for a targeted security, generally a low-trading volume issuer in the over-the-counter securities market largely controlled by the fraud perpetrators.
Nigerian Letter or “419” Fraud -Nigerian letter frauds combine the threat of impersonation fraud with a variation of an advance fee scheme in which a letter mailed, or e-mailed, from Nigeria offers the recipient the “opportunity” to share in a percentage of millions of dollars that the author—a self-proclaimed government official—is trying to transfer illegally out of Nigeria.
Non-Delivery of Merchandise -Non-delivery of merchandise is a scheme most often linked to Internet auction fraud, but also can be considered a form of business fraud in certain cases.
Ponzi Schemes -“Ponzi” schemes promise high financial returns or dividends not available through traditional investments. Instead of investing the funds of victims, however, the con artist pays “dividends” to initial investors using the funds of subsequent investors.
Prime Bank Note Fraud -The purpose of these frauds is generally to encourage the victim to send money to a foreign bank, where it is eventually transferred to an off-shore account in the control of the con artist. From there, the victim’s money is used for the perpetrator’s personal expenses or is laundered in an effort to make it disappear.
Pyramid Schemes -As in Ponzi schemes, the money collected from newer victims of pyramid schemes is paid to earlier victims to provide a veneer of legitimacy. In pyramid schemes, however, the victims themselves are induced to recruit further victims through the payment of recruitment commissions.
Redemption / Strawman / Bond Fraud -This scheme predominately uses fraudulent financial documents—often referred to as “bills of exchange,” “promissory bonds,” “indemnity bonds,” “offset bonds,” “sight drafts,” or “comptrollers warrants”—that appear to be legitimate.
Reverse Mortgage Scams -Reverse mortgage scams are engineered by unscrupulous professionals in a multitude of real estate, financial services, and related companies to steal the equity from the property of unsuspecting senior citizens or to use these seniors to unwittingly aid the fraudsters in stealing equity from a flipped property.
Telemarketing Fraud -When you send money to people you do not know personally or give personal or financial information to unknown callers, you increase your chances of becoming a victim of telemarketing fraud.
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