The number of reported phishing scams has increased nationwide, according to the American Banker’s Association (ABA). Perpetrators are using phone calls, texts and emails to trick banking customers into believing that their accounts have been closed because of fraud. People are then asked to enter their card number, including the card’s expiration date and Card Verification Value code in order to “reactivate their accounts.” The individual’s information is then stolen.
The ABA recently released tips to avoid becoming a victim of phishing scams:
- Don’t give out personal or financial information to a number, fax or email address you do not recognize.
- Some scams threaten “dire consequences” if you don’t provide your card information immediately. If you don’t recognize the caller or sender, don’t respond. Contact the credit card company directly to verify the validity of the alert.
- Check your credit card and bank statements habitually for any irregular activity, and report any unauthorized transactions immediately to your bank.
- Look for the lock symbol — make sure to only submit financial information through secure Internet sites that have the padlock or key icon at the bottom of your browser.
- If you have responded to a suspicious email, contact us at Horizon Bank so we can work to protect your account information and identity.
You don’t have to be a victim of these crimes. Learn more about protecting yourself from fraud and identity theft.