What you should know.
From unemployment to phishing, scams are on the rise. You work hard for your money, and we want to help make sure it does not end up in someone else's hands. When we learn of new scams you should know about, we will post information here to help you keep your money safe and your personal information private.
Identity theft
Identify theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud, obtaining loans and access to funds under your name. Identity theft is a serious issue, costing an estimated $50 billion a year in the United States. There are regulations designed to protect your rights if you are a victim of identity theft, but it is still your responsibility to enact those protections by taking action as soon as you believe your identity has been stolen. For example, you should freeze your accounts and place a fraud alert with all three credit reporting agencies. What else should you do? Check out this guide which gives you step-by-step instructions and contact information to help right this wrong.
The BaZing feature on our Rewards and Select checking accounts comes with ID Theft Aid to help you in this endeavor. If you are not using one of these checking account types, it may be time to open one.
internet banking and Mobile banking security
Safeguard your information by selecting long and strong passwords. Some recommendations:
- At least 12 characters
- Avoid using passwords used on other accounts
- Avoid using common words
- Use a phrase or random words
- Use a password manager to keep track of your passwords
- Check out other online security tips from the Federal Trade Commission.
Phishing scams
You probably think it could never happen to you, but you'd be wrong. People of various backgrounds and education levels fall for these slick scams every day. We've even seen it with our own customers. Don't let it be you! The American Bankers Association has put together a useful website showing you how to identify a scam and thus avoid them (spoiler alert, call your bank directly!). Check out their website HERE.
TEXT SCAMS
Text scams, better known as "Smishing" (SMS Text), is where a fraudster will send a fake text that could appear to be from the bank to trick you into giving out personal information. The text will you usually include a link for you to open and this is where the fraudsters will attempt to get personal information. Do not fall victim to fraudulent text messages! Contact the bank immediately if you have any suspicion. Visit the Federal Trade Commission website for great tips on how to recognize and avoid text scams.
how money smart are you?
Like to game and learn how to save money at the same time? The FDIC's Money Smart product offers educational tools that provide practical knowledge to help you manage your finances with confidence. Click here to have fun and learn now!