Fraud & Security Tips
Scam attempts are on the rise. We're here to help.
As a consumer, you are on the internet more now than ever, using social media and email, as well as shopping for many items online. But do you know how to protect yourself from cyber security threats? The following information can help you protect yourself from the dangers posed by scammers, hackers and phishing attempts.
Reminder:
PeoplesBank will never call or text you to ask for personal information and passwords.
We urge you to be suspicious of any email, text message or caller asking you to "verify account information."
If someone calls or texts you, or you receive a request for this information, please call us ASAP at 413.538.9500.
What is a Spoofing Attack?
Spoofing is where an unknown person disguises communications as a trusted and known source. It is a form of cyberattack that criminals employ to meet specific malicious ends.
Identity Protection Services
As more companies reveal data breaches on large scales, the need for consumers to protect themselves, their reputations, and their financial interests with identity protection services is growing daily. Fortunately, many services are available to help you.
Keeping Your Mobile Phone Secure
Your phone contains sensitive information about you, your finances, and your family. It is critical to protect this information from falling into the wrong hands. As the owner, there are several one-time changes you can make and ongoing habits you should learn to keep your mobile phone secure.
If You’re a Victim of a Data Breach
Technology and online security see continuous enhancements each year, but unfortunately, those upgrades have not been enough to protect databases from being breached by hackers. As a result, identity theft remains a serious issue in the United States.
Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
Identity theft remains a serious issue in the United States. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to lessen your odds of becoming a victim of this crime.
Take Advantage of Two-Step Authentication
Standard security methods, such as a simple username and password, may not cut it any longer as online thieves can still access accounts for fraudulent purposes. Using two-step authentication helps add an extra layer of security and protection.
Here are some common tips to help protect yourself while online.
- Use Strong Passwords - Experts recommend using a passphrase that is long and easy to remember but hard for someone to discover. They advise against using easily guessed passwords such as birthdays and home addresses.
- Utilize Anti-Virus Software - Make sure that the anti-virus software on your computer is up-to-date and that it is scanning email as it is received.
- Email Safety - Don’t open emails from anyone you don’t know or trust. If it seems fishy, it probably is.
- Monitor Your Accounts - When you check the accounts in your credit report regularly, you can let your creditors know if you encounter anything that does not seem right.
Attacks like phishing and ransomware can be prevented with simple steps and education.
Scammers often try to elicit a sense of fear or urgency in victims. Do not panic. If something makes you feel uncomfortable, end the form of communication immediately.
Please do your due diligence and be wary of any attempts to gain your personal information, including:
- Phishing emails with malicious links or attachments (if you are not expecting it, do not click it)
- Donations to fake charities (verify charities before making donations)
- Social Media ads
- Texts Calls
We want our customers to have the tools they need to keep their accounts safe. That’s why PeoplesOnline has these helpful features.
- Credit Sense: Access to your credit score at any time, along with tips on how to improve or maintain your score.*
- Debit Card Controls: Manage your debit card with confidence from our mobile app, including shutting it down if it gets lost or stolen.
- Account Alerts: Stay up-to-date on account activity or balances. Alerts can be delivered to your mobile phone or any email address.
Legal Information & Disclosures
*Your credit score is provided by SavvyMoney, Inc., a 3rd party vendor. The credit score provided is intended to help you understand the factors that affect your credit score. The credit score found in the credit report may be different than the credit score you see here. Terms and conditions apply and are subject to change without notice.