Plumas Bank announces that, in recognition of Data Privacy Week Jan. 25 through 31, it is joining the Independent Community Bankers of America in reminding customers to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal and financial information amid an evolving cybersecurity landscape. The average cost of a data breach in the United States rose to $10.22 million in 2025, signaling both continued attacks and increasing regulatory fines even as global costs declined 9% year over year, said the bank.
“Protecting customer information is foundational to everything we do,” said Plumas Bank Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer Aaron Boigon. “While no system is foolproof, community banks like ours heavily invest in advanced security tools, and continuous monitoring and employee training to safeguard sensitive data. We also work with customers to share practical tips to reduce their risk or respond quickly following a data breach.”
Reducing risk
The bank points out that consumers can help minimize their risk by following this advice:
- Be cautious on public networks. Avoid accessing financial accounts or entering sensitive data when using public Wi-Fi. When necessary, use a virtual private network or mobile hotspot.
- Limit information sharing. Don’t share personal or financial information such as account numbers or passwords in response to unsolicited calls, texts or emails, even if they appear legitimate.
- Keep software up to date. Regularly update operating systems, browsers and security software to protect against known vulnerabilities and emerging threats.
- Monitor accounts frequently. Review bank and credit card statements for unusual activity, and check credit reports regularly for unauthorized accounts or inquiries. Individuals should report any suspicious activity to their bank immediately.
- Use strong, unique passwords. Create complex passwords of at least 12 characters and enable multifactor authentication whenever available. A reputable password manager can help securely manage credentials.
Responding to a data breach
Anyone who believes their personal information has been compromised can take the following immediate actions:
- Place a security freeze on your credit report to restrict credit file access.
- Set up a fraud alert, which directs banks to verify a customer’s identity before opening a new account, issuing an additional card or increasing the credit limit on an existing account.
- Shred documents with personal or sensitive information and change passwords.
- Report stolen finances or identities and other cybercrime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center and to local law enforcement and/or the state attorney general.
More information about how customers can protect their digital life is available on the Stay Safe Online website.
Founded in 1980, Plumas Bank is a full-service community bank headquartered in Quincy. The bank operates 19 branches and two loan production offices and has been granted nationwide preferred lender status with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The Independent Community Bankers of America works to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish, through effective advocacy, education and innovation. More information is available at icba.org.
