How to Avoid Scammers
Online scammers may try to take advantage of web users and shoppers by pretending to be a business or bank you trust. Follow these easy steps to keep yourself safe and learn how to report fraudulent activity.
Never send money to scammers
Common money requests are made with a sense of urgency. For example, a scammer may say there is an emergency and ask you to send a gift card or wire transfer. If you receive a text, email, or phone call asking you to send money and the message comes from someone you have never met in person, do not send them any funds. Even if you get a text or email from someone claiming to be someone you know, contact them by other means to verify that it really is them. Hang up the phone or leave the website immediately and report this scam.
You can report frauds online to the Federal Trade Commission.
Don’t click, open, or download questionable content
Receiving a text message or email requesting you to download something, visit a webpage, or call a specific number is a red flag. These are all actions you should avoid. Online scammers use these techniques to gain access to your personal information. You should block these numbers and email addresses and report them to the Federal Trade Commission. You can also add your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry.
Keep an eye out for details
Bad actors are excellent at mimicking company logos, falsifying caller ID numbers, and appearing as something they are not. If the company logo in the email looks blurry or the font doesn’t quite look right, double-check that the company is who they say they are representing just in case. Many scammers will imitate brands you are familiar with but end up making a few mistakes.
For example, if you receive an email from someone who claims they are a representative from your local bank, but the message doesn’t quite look or sound legitimate, visit the secure website you’re familiar with. Do not click within the email or take any action as requested by the sender.
Do not give out your personal information
Your bank will not call or text you and ask for your social security number or your passwords. If you receive this kind of unsolicited request, hang up, block the number, and report them to the Federal Trade Commission.
Final thoughts
Yoakum National Bank has been your trusted source for everyday banking, wealth management, and various loans since 1890. We are here for you should you have any questions or concerns about the security of your online account. Contact us to learn more about keeping your account safe.
