Be Careful! Scam Attempts and Fraud Are On The Rise!

Fraud is a lucrative business, which is why it's on the rise. Every day criminals are out there trying to steal your personal information … and they are smart! Criminals use social engineering to gain your trust over the phone or on the internet. They use malware and viruses that can be executed on your mobile device or computer when you click on an infected email, attachment, or link. Most of the time, the malware is so complex, it can bypass the most sophisticated anti-virus software.

The best way to prevent fraud and protect your identity is to apply as many protective measures as you can. Below are a few safety reminders and safeguards that you can start using immediately to help protect your identity and accounts.

Reminders:

• Fraudsters will go to extreme lengths to obtain your personal information or account details. Be cautions when an unknown caller tries to engage you in communication about yourself or your family.
• Any business you have an existing relationship with will have your information on file. Question any situation when you are asked for your personal information and NEVER provide your password or financial information to anyone.
• Review your account transactions regularly, and report any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions to us immediately.
• To verify any communication, always call the number you have on file for an individual or business. Never validate an attempt to communicate with the information or phone number provided by a possible fraudster.

Calls and Texts:

• Do not answer calls from unknown numbers.
• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up, do not engage the caller.
• If you have given out your personal information, alert your financial institution(s) that your personal information has been compromised. They will assist you with next steps.
• Mobile fraud has more than doubled in recent years. Do not reply or click on text links from unknown numbers. Text links can contain malware, exposing information stored on your mobile device to the fraudster.

Emails:

• Delete emails from unknown senders.
• Do not open links or attachments in suspicious emails. Most malware and ransomware attacks are executed when links and attachments are opened. Validate the email by calling the sender with the number you have on file.

Internet:

• Be cautious navigating unknown websites and clicking on pop ups or ads.
• Change passwords on websites that have access to your personal information (such as financial or medical records) and never duplicate passwords on websites or applications.
• Be aware that games and compatibility questionnaires on social media are social engineering tools for cybercriminals. Be vigilant in what personal information and details you are sharing when participating in these activities.

Free Account Safe Guards:

• Download our Mobile App for convenience, real time account activity and anytime access.
• Set up eAlerts to receive notifications on your account activity, sign-in attempts, low balance, deposits, withdrawals and more!
• Enroll in eStatements and avoid the possibility of your statement information getting lost in the mail.
• Enroll in Visa Purchase Alerts and receive a text message or email when your Visa Debit or Credit card is used.
• Access SavvyMoney for monitoring of your credit score and credit report. This service is available and integrated through our mobile app.

If you have questions about your account activity, or any of the services listed above, contact us. Our team is ready to assist you.