First Resource Bank is taking a proactive approach in helping its customers and the community protect themselves from becoming victims of identity theft and cyber scams.

With the ever-increasing threats that businesses and consumers face on a daily basis, taking the proper precautions to protect personally identifiable information has never been more important.

To help mitigate this risk, First Resource Bank will host two free shred events this fall, as well as a cybersecurity seminar in partnership with the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce.

“We are thrilled to provide our community with the resources they need to ensure their information is secure,” said First Resource Bank President and CFO Lauren Ranalli. “Helping your neighbor is what community banking is all about.”

The first shred event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 10 AM-1 PM at the Wayne Art Center, located at 413 Maplewood Avenue in Wayne. The second will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 9 AM-12 PM at First Resource Bank’s Exton branch at 800 North Pottstown Pike.

Members of the community are invited to bring any documents they would like to have shredded to the event. While both events are free, donations will be accepted at the Wayne event in support of the Wayne Art Center and at the Exton event in support of the Downingtown Blue & Gold Marching Band.

On Friday, Oct. 1 from 7:30-9 AM at the Brandywine Hospital’s Spackman Center, Brian Jackson, First Resource Bank’s Senior Vice President of Information Technology, will provide a series of helpful tips and tricks on how businesses and consumers can protect themselves from being victims of cyber scams. He’ll share some of the latest ways in which hackers and cybercriminals are targeting consumers and businesses and what to look out for.

“As technology advances and becomes more sophisticated, so do the tactics of criminals,” said Jackson. “Providing resources which educate our community on how they can protect themselves from becoming a victim is crucial. Our customers rely on us to safeguard their information.  While we do everything in our power to protect them, the first step is always prevention at home and at work. I encourage the community to join us at all of these events and be the first line of defense in guarding their information.”

Those who attend the shred events will have the opportunity to view their documents being destroyed in the Wiggins shred truck. All binder clips and metal objects must be removed prior to shredding. Additional information about these events can be found on First Resource Bank’s Facebook page or by calling 610-363-9400.

Learn more about First Resource Bank.