‘Tis the Season of Fraud!
Don’t let scammers steal your holiday cheer! The holiday season is here, and scammers are changing their tactics to target victims during this busy time of year. At First Citizens Bank, your security and privacy are of utmost importance to us. Unwrap the gift of safety with these festive fraud tips from First Citizens!
Stay Vigilant Online
Be cautious when shopping online and only use secure, trusted websites. Look for “https” in the URL and the padlock symbol in the browser.
Update Your Passwords
Regularly changing your passwords keeps your accounts safe and secure. Use strong, and unique combinations to keep your account secure.
Beware of Phishing Emails
Be cautious about unsolicited emails, especially those with attachments or links. DO NOT click on any links or attachments you were not expecting. Verify the senders legitimacy and NEVER share personal information via email.
Beware of Post-Shopping Scams
Scammers target customers with urgent phishing emails about their recent purchases. The most common are fake shipping delays and unexpected purchase confirmations. If you are expecting a package and receive a related email, look for details such as the order number, purchase date, and payment method. If you receive a notice from a retailer, DO NOT click any links in the email. Instead, use your browser to navigate directly to the retailer’s official website and look up your order there.
Monitor Your Accounts
We recommend that you review your account statements, transactions, and balances daily. This will allow you to quickly identify any suspicious or unauthorized activity. Report any suspicious or unauthorized transactions immediately.
Protect Your Personal Information
Never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers or random text messages. We will not request such details via phone, text, or email.
Secure Your Devices
Keep your devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Install reputable anti-virus and anti-malware.
In Conclusion
These are just a few, but very important, festive fraud tips to help you stay safe and secure this holiday season! Visit our Security Center on our website for more up-to-date information on safety tips and current scams. Don’t let scammers steal your holiday cheer! If you have any questions or concerns on fraud, please contact us at 800-423-1602 or fill out a contact form.