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Security

Security

Cases of fraud are on the rise and more and more, scammers are targeting unsuspecting people in nefarious attempts to gain access to sensitive personally identifying information and financial accounts. While these fraudsters are getting more savvy, being aware of the risks and taking precautions can help you better safeguard your accounts and your identity.

PLEASE KNOW: First Citizens National Bank would never call or text you to request sensitive information, such as your account numbers or Social Security Number. If you receive a call claiming to be from FCNB requesting this information, hang up! You can call us directly at (419) 294-2351 to verify if a call came from First Citizens National Bank.

COMMON METHODS OF SCAMMING

PHISHING: Phishing is a common method of committing identity theft in which a scammer sends an email or makes a phone call posing as a bank or other trusted source asking for sensitive information such as credit card or bank account numbers, passwords, or Social Security numbers.

SMISHING: Smishing (“SMS phishing”) often involves text messages that claim to be from a bank or other company. The text usually includes a number to call or link to click, which scammers use to try to trick people out of personal information or money.

SPOOFING: A deceptive email or website created in effort to trick the recipient into thinking it is from a valid and trusted source. This can also apply to phone calls, and the practice of “spoofing” Caller ID so that a call appears to come from a trusted source.

There are a number of types of scams, and more all the time. For a list of common scams, visit the FTC’s Site: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/topics/glossary-scams-legal-terms

REDUCE YOUR RISK OF IDENTITY THEFT

Protect Your Passwords

Never share your passwords with others and create a unique, strong password for each login. A strong password should be upwards of 12 characters and is a mix of letters (upper and lowercase), numbers, and symbols. Make your passwords complex. An alternative is to use a password generator. Implement two-factor authentication when it’s available.

Practice Security on Your Devices

Make sure your smart phones and tablets are secured with a passcode. Refrain from accessing mobile banking platforms and other sensitive websites and apps while on public Wi-Fi.

Recognize the Fakes

Get familiar with the signs of a spoofed website or email. The fakes will often look pretty similar to the original, but there are differences. A common sign for emails is when the name and email address don’t match. Fake websites often have a domain that’s similar to the original one but is a slightly misspelled variation. Both often contain typos and poor grammar – but not always! When in doubt, access the website directly through the URL you know rather than click a link in a suspicious email.

Review Your Credit Reports

You are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the credit reporting agencies – Experian, Equifax, TransUnion. Visit annualcreditreport.com to request yours and get into the habit of reviewing your credit reports regularly to spot any inaccuracies or potential fraudulent issues.

Utilize the Banking Tools to Protect Your Accounts

FCNB offers a variety of online and mobile banking tools to help you better protect your accounts. Set up real-time alerts in mobile banking and be notified if your balance drops, if your debit card is used, if there are signs of fraudulent activity, and more. FCNB also offers access to Identity Theft Protection via Assurant Services. 

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR IDENTITY HAS BEEN STOLEN

It can be very overwhelming to discover that you’ve been the victim of fraudsters, but acting swiftly is essential.

Report the Identity Theft

Documenting fraud is necessary. If you’ve been the victim of identity theft, you need to immediately notify:

  • Your bank, the fraud department at your credit card issuers, and other places where you have accounts. We ask that customers contact us immediately to let us know so we can help protect your accounts.
  • The three major credit reporting agencies (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax). Ask them to place fraud alerts and a credit freeze on your accounts.
  • The Federal Trade Commission online at IdentityTheft.gov or by phone at 877-438-4338.


For a full list of action steps to take if your identity has been stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov/steps for detailed next steps to take.

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