Important Notice for Our Independent Bank VISA® Check Card Cardholders
February 09, 2009
We regret to inform you that VISA® USA has notified us that a number of Independent Bank Check Cards have been involved in a recent information security breach. On January 20, 2009, Heartland Payment Systems announced that a data intrusion into its computer network had occurred in 2008, potentially exposing debit and credit card transaction information.
Heartland provides processing services to over 250,000 business locations throughout the US. The intrusion affected merchants that used Heartland service. The breach did not occur at Independent Bank. Heartland has provided information as well as its press release online.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Was my checking account or personal information stolen?
A: No. The only information at risk is located on the back of your card’s magnetic stripe, which doesn’t contain your personal information, PIN or your checking account number. We do not have information that any other data was taken.
Q: Was my card number stolen?
A: Currently, we’re receiving lists of potentially affected card numbers that were in the merchant processor’s system when the intrusion occurred. This list does not mean your account number was compromised – it means it was present at the time of the breach. At this time, we are waiting for the complete list of accounts from Visa.
Q: Should my card be replaced?
A: Based on the information we have to date, we do not believe a mass reissue is necessary.
Independent Bank uses advanced anti-fraud measures to monitor card transactions and identify suspicious activity 24-hours a day, seven days a week. To date, we have seen no indication our accounts are being misused in conjunction with this compromise. If we receive additional information that determines we may be at risk, we may take additional actions, including reissuing new cards.
Q: Who is the merchant processor and what do they do?
A: As a credit and debit card processor, Heartland provides processing services to over 250,000 business locations throughout the US. On January 20, 2009, Heartland Payment Systems sent a news release advising they had identified a data breach. Heartland has provided information as well as its press release online.
Q: What should I do?
A: You can be assured that we are monitoring this situation closely. It’s important that you
carefully review your monthly statements immediately and notify us if you see anything unusual or unauthorized. We do recommend that you change your PIN. Changing your PIN adds another layer of protection against the chance that your card may be used fraudulently.
If however, you still do not feel comfortable continuing to use your current card, please visit your local Independent Bank banking office or call us toll free at 1.800.355.0641 and we will gladly issue you a new card to use.
Q: Am I responsible for fraud losses?
A: Upon review of your account statement, please notify Independent Bank immediately if you notice suspicious or unauthorized transactions. Independent Bank will investigate all claims and work with customers to resolve disputes. Please refer to your Electronic Funds Transfer Agreement & Disclosure for more information about Visa’s Zero Liability Policy or call Customer Service toll free at 1.800.355.0641.
Q: What are the next steps?
A: We will continue to assess this situation and take action to ensure all Independent Bank Visa Check Cards are being monitored and protected. Please be assured that we will keep our customers and associates updated if more information becomes available.
We apologize for any inconvenience this situation may cause. Protecting our valued customers from unnecessary risks has been, and will continue to be, our top priority. If you have questions, please contact your local banking office or Customer Service toll free at 1.800.355.0641. Thank you for choosing Independent Bank.
