Protect Yourself from Text and Phone Bank Fraud
At PenAir Credit Union, we prioritize your financial security above all else. In today’s digital age, protecting yourself from text and phone bank fraud is more important than ever. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to steal sensitive information and money from unsuspecting individuals. Here, we provide essential tips to help you safeguard your finances and stay one step ahead of fraudsters.
Recognizing Common Scams
- Urgent Alerts: Scammers may send texts or make calls claiming there’s an urgent issue with your account, prompting you to click on a link or call a number immediately.
- Prize Notifications: You might receive messages stating you’ve won a prize or lottery and need to provide personal information to claim it.
- Verification Requests: Fraudsters often pose as bank representatives asking for account verification details.
Tips to Stay Safe
1. Verify Caller Information
Always verify the identity of callers claiming to be from PenAir or any financial institution. Remember, PenAir will never ask for sensitive information like passwords or PINs over the phone. If you’re unsure about a call, hang up and contact PenAir directly using a trusted phone number from our official website or statement.
2. Be Cautious with Text Messages
Exercise caution when responding to text messages requesting personal or financial information. Fraudsters often impersonate banks to deceive customers. Verify the authenticity of such messages by contacting your financial institution directly using verified contact information. Never click on links or provide personal information in response to unsolicited texts.
3. Monitor Account Activity
Regularly monitor your bank statements and account activity for any unauthorized transactions. Set up alerts through PenAir’s online banking platform to notify you of suspicious activity. Reporting any discrepancies promptly to PenAir can prevent further financial losses.
4. Report Fraudulent Activity
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a text or phone bank scam, report it to PenAir and local authorities immediately. The sooner you report fraudulent activity, the faster action can be taken to protect your accounts and prevent further harm.
Protecting Your Information
Keep Personal Information Private: Never share your account details, Social Security number, or passwords via text or over the phone.
Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and update them regularly.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication where available.
At PenAir Credit Union, we are committed to protecting your financial security. Following these essential tips and staying vigilant can reduce the risk of falling victim to text and phone bank fraud. For more information on safeguarding your finances, speak with one of our Member Services Team.