Identity Theft Protection

What is identity theft?

Identity theft is a type of fraud where someone uses your personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account number, to open accounts or initiate transactions using your name, without your permission.


What are the warning signs?

  • Accounts on your credit reports that you didn’t open.
  • Bills that you used to get are no longer delivered to you.
  • Credit inquiries from companies you’ve never contacted.
  • Inaccurate balances showing on your accounts in your credit reports.
  • Incorrect personal information on your credit reports.
  • Unauthorized withdrawal from your bank account.

How can I prevent identity theft?

It’s important to understand identity theft and to take steps to protect yourself.

  • Carry only necessary information with you. Leave your Social Security card or unused credits cards at home in a safe and secure location.
  • Don’t write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.
  • Keep your personal information in a secure place at home.
  • Limit the number of credit offers you receive by mail and email.
  • Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails. Instead, use an internet browser to type in a web address you know.
  • Shred account statements, or documents containing personal or financial information before discarding.
  • Sign up for electronic statements and try to limit paper statements.
  • Remove your name from marketing lists.
  • Review your credit report at least once a year, looking for suspicious or unknown transactions.

Help! I am a victim of identity theft! What should I do?

Act quickly and take the following actions:

  • Call us at 1-888-SYNOVUS if you believe your Synovus card or account is impacted.
  • Contact your financial institution(s) and credit card companies immediately and alert them to the situation.
  • Contact one of the three major credit bureaus and discuss whether you need to place a fraud alert on your file. This will help prevent thieves from opening a new account in your name:
    • Equifax | 1-800-525-6285
    • Experian | 1-888-397-3742
    • TransUnion | 1-800-680-7289
  • Close any accounts that were accessed or opened illegally.
  • Review your credit reports regularly. And learn how to freeze and unfreeze your credit.
  • Be sure to contact other agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, Federal Trade Commission and others, as appropriate.
  • File a report with law enforcement officials to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime.
  • Contact your broker, account manager, the Securities Exchange Commission, NASD and/or Securities Regulator if you think someone has tampered with your securities investments or brokerage account.
  • Report all suspicious contacts to the Federal Trade Commission or call1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338).
  • Complete the Customer Security Incident Reporting form if you believe you have discovered a potential security concern regarding any Synovus products.
  • As a victim of identity theft, know your rights. Click here to view those rights and learn how to report identity theft.
  • Tips for military members to prevent identity theft.

Visit our Fraud Hub

Stay up to date on the latest fraud scams by visiting the Synovus Fraud Prevention and Security Hub.