In recent times, especially around the holiday season, there's been a noticeable uptick in reports of scams and fraudulent activities. It has become increasingly crucial to remain vigilant.
To protect your finances, regularly monitor the activity on your account through our mobile app or online banking service. If you encounter any transaction that seems unusual, do not hesitate to inform us immediately. You can contact us by calling the number on your card or by visiting one of our branches.
Pay attention even to minor discrepancies in your account, such as transactions amounting to just a few cents. This could potentially indicate that a fraudster is testing your account.
Here are some common scams to be aware of, along with tips on how to protect yourself:
Suspicious Link Scams: In the digital age, it's tempting to click on links offering great discounts. However, these links could be traps set by scammers to distribute malware or redirect you to counterfeit websites with the intent of stealing your personal data.
Protection Strategy: Be cautious and avoid interacting with dubious links. It's crucial to remember that scammers can adeptly mimic reputable retailers to make their links appear legitimate.
Billing Scams: Sometimes, individuals posing as representatives from well-known retailers or banks might contact you, claiming there was a problem with your order. They may ask for your banking details under the pretext of needing them to complete your purchase or threaten to cancel your order otherwise.
Protection Strategy: Don't be pressured by their sense of urgency. Always verify such claims by contacting the company directly through official channels.
Spoofed Website Scams: Scammers also create fake websites that mimic the sites of legitimate retailers, offering incredible deals to lure unsuspecting shoppers and steal their payment information.
Protection Strategy: Ensure you're on an authentic site by thoroughly checking the URL before making a purchase.
Fake Order Scams: During periods of heavy online shopping, it's easy to lose track of your orders. Scammers take advantage of this by sending out fraudulent order confirmations, hoping to trick you into clicking on malicious links.
Protection Strategy: Verify any unrecognized purchase directly through the retailer's official website or check your email history for any genuine confirmations.
Fake Delivery Notification Scams: Receiving unexpected package delivery notifications can be confusing. Such notifications, demanding payment for delivery, are tactics used by scammers to extort money and personal information.
Protection Strategy: Always track your packages through the official websites of the retailers where you made your purchases.
By staying informed and cautious, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.
