Card Compromise FAQ

Understanding a Data Compromise

A data compromise is an organized theft of check card information. When this happens, it’s primarily because of a data breach on the part of a merchant third-party processor, computer theft, stolen storage tapes or company insiders working for a merchant or a merchant’s contractor.

How Buena Vista National Bank is notified of a data compromise

Buena Vista National Bank receives information from multiple outside sources such as Mastercard® or law enforcement agencies. Due to the sensitivity of the information involved, details specific to the breach are not disclosed to the bank, so we are unable to provide the name of the merchant or where the data breach has occurred.

What to expect when a data compromise occurs

We understand that learning your account information may have been compromised can be an alarming experience. Important things to note if your card account data has been compromised:

• • We may proactively lower daily limits and reissue a new card in order to help protect your account.
  • It does not mean that fraud has occurred or will occur on your account.
  • It does not mean that you have become or will become a victim of identity theft.
  • If you notice any fraudulent charges to your account, contact us immediately by calling the number on the back of your card. We will take a proactive approach to protect your account by lowering the limits on your old card and issuing a new one.

What you need to do when you receive your new card:

• • If you’ve set up recurring payments or a service provider has your card number on file using your old check card number, you’ll need to provide those companies with your new check card number and expiration date. Keep in mind that your checking account number hasn’t changed.
  • Destroy your old card and start using your new card immediately with your new Personal Identification Number (PIN).
  • Set up your new Personal Identification (PIN) by following the instructions enclosed with the letter you received informing you of the compromise.
  • Activate your new card by following the instructions enclosed with your card so you can continue making check card transactions without interruption.
  • If you notice any fraudulent charges on your account, please contact us immediately by calling the number on the back of your card.

What is a data compromise?

A data compromise is an organized theft of check card information. When this happens, it’s primarily because of a data breach on the part of a merchant third-party processor, computer theft, stolen storage tapes or company insiders working for a merchant or a merchant’s contractor.

Where and when was the card information compromised?

When a data compromise affecting your accounts occurs, Buena Vista National Bank receives information from multiple outside sources such as Mastercard® or law enforcement agencies. Due to the sensitivity of the information involved, details specific to the breach are not disclosed to the bank, so we are unable to provide the name of the merchant or where the data breach has occurred.

Is it safe to use my new card?

Yes. We are replacing your card as a safety measure to help ensure that your account information is protected. The new card has a new account number. Please activate your new card and continue to use it as you normally would.

What can I do to protect my information?

Always know where your card is. If you misplace it, call us immediately so we can block the card from use.

• • Regularly monitoring your account activity is the best way to help detect if your have been a victim of fraud. Buena Vista National Bank’s Internet Banking service allows you to access your account activity at your convenience and signing up for electronic statement may also help reduce your risk of mail fraud.
  • If you receive your statements in the mail, review your statement as soon as possible after it is delivered and immediately report any fraudulent transactions.
  • For added protection, you can sign up for Notifi real-time alerts to monitor your accounts and debit card transactions.  

What if I think my check card number is being fraudulently used?

Review your recent transactions and ensure they are all yours. Sometimes a single unauthorized charge may be an error and can be resolved quickly by contacting the merchant. If you see transactions you do not recognize, call the number on the back of your card immediately to report it.

Do I need to close my other Buena Vista National Bank accounts?

It is not necessary at this time to close other accounts. As always, Buena Vista National Bank continues to monitor your account for unusual activity.