Fraud Prevention Tips

1.    Keep sensitive documents in a secure location or safe

These items include birth certificate, social security card, passport, checks, bank statements and other documents with your information.

2.    Never provide account numbers, PIN numbers, passwords, or financial information over the phone or in a text or email

Scammers will push for you to share this information with them by rushing or pressuring you. If you feel uncomfortable or are suspicious disconnect from the call. Call the bank number that you know is legit and verify whether the representative was legitimate. These forms of communication are not secure or well encrypted to help protect your information.

3.    Avoid Phishing scams

Phishing scams are fraudulent communications that appear to be from a legitimate source. Be on high alert when receiving emails, phone calls, and text messages. Scammers like to mimic logos and other information to appear legit. Do not click on links or messages unless you are expecting to receive them. Be wary of links, attachments, pop ups and texts that you receive.

4.    Monitor your account frequently

We recommend that you view your account and transactions frequently to verify that these transactions are legitimate. This will help ensure that you catch unauthorized transactions quickly. This can help with disputing transactions because there are time frames we must adhere by.

5.    Enroll in eAlerts

Signing up for eAlerts can be very helpful with monitoring your accounts. You’ll receive an alert when withdrawals are made from your accounts and can help catch fraudulent activity. You can choose to either receive text messages, emails, or both.

6.    Go Paperless

Sign up for eStatements and receive your statements through email rather than physical statements being mailed. There can be mailing errors or people stealing mail to get ahold of your financial information.

7.    Shred sensitive documents, cards and information when disposing of them

This is the most secure way to get rid of sensitive information. Throwing these documents in the trash can make you susceptible to others getting your information.

8.    Password security

Never share your passwords with anyone, even trusted individuals. You should use different password for different websites and apps. This way if someone does get your password they don’t have access to everything you do. Use a password manager that can store your passwords. Change passwords regularly and avoid using personal information in your passwords.