Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, text messages and phone calls from scammers pretending to be their bank. As online banking, mobile payments and digital financial services continue to grow, so do the tactics used by fraudsters. While technology has made banking more convenient than ever, it’s also more important than ever to recognize the warning signs of fraud before becoming a victim.
In many cases, fraud is preventable. Knowing what to look for is one of the best ways to protect yourself. At Ambler Savings Bank, we’re committed to helping our customers recognize phishing attempts, cyber-attacks and impersonation scams before they become costly.
For starters, remember these four words: Banks Never Ask That.
Banks won’t call, text or email you to ask for personal identifiers, passwords, one-time verification codes, click suspicious links or open unexpected attachments
Three Common Phishing Scams
- Text Message: Messages asking you to verify your account or share personal information are scams. Banks Never Ask That.
- Email: Be cautious of emails asking you to click links, open attachments or provide personal information. Banks Never Ask That.
- Phone Call: If you’re asked to verify your password or security code over an unexpected call, hang up and call your bank directly.
- Learn more at BanksNeverAskThat.com.
Red Flags to Help Prevent Phishing Scams
1. Be Wary of Urgency
Scammers pressure you to act immediately. Legitimate banks will never use scare tactics.
2. Never Share Sensitive Information
Never provide passwords, PINs, one-time codes or other sensitive information through unexpected calls, emails or texts.
3. Avoid Suspicious Links and Attachments
Type your bank’s website directly into your browser or use the official mobile app instead of clicking links.
4. Question Unusual Payment Requests
Banks will never ask you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or payment apps.
5. When in Doubt, Contact Your Bank Directly
If something doesn’t feel right, contact your bank using a trusted phone number before taking action.
6. Watch for Payment App Scams
Never send money to someone you don’t know, and remember that your bank will never ask you to send money to yourself or pay bills through a payment app.
Fraud Prevention Services We Offer
Positive Pay for Business Check Monitoring
Positive Pay helps business customers identify potentially fraudulent check and ACH transactions before they are processed. Since cyber fraud isn’t going away anytime soon, staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Educate yourself, monitor your accounts regularly and remember: Banks Never Ask That.
For more information or questions contact us at customerservice@amblersav.com.