During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it is critical to protect your data and that of your company from the numerous scams found online.  At Bank of the Rockies, we take your personal data seriously, employing all required and beneficial methods to secure your personal information. The more you know about these scams, such as SMS phishing, the easier it is to protect yourself.

Understanding SMS Phishing

SMS phishing, sometimes referred to as smishing, is a type of scam that involves a text message sent to your phone that appears very real. It may be an alert that seems to come from your bank. Often, there is a link to click on to get the information you need.

Smishing scams put your personal information at risk by allowing cybercriminals access to your phone’s content. You may be asked to input your bank account information to learn what the alert is.

The best way to minimize these risks is to avoid clicking on any link in any message. If you have fallen victim to these attacks, contact your financial institution first. You may need to file a complaint with the local police department. Consider investing in identity theft software to protect your rights further.

Email Phishing Scams

Phishing emails trick people into clicking on links in them that put your sensitive data at risk. Some of the most common red flags include:

  • Suspicious links in the email
  • “Odd” or inaccurate statements or poor grammar
  • Urgent language
  • Unfamiliar senders
  • Sender email addresses that are not company-specific

Open emails with care. If you do not know the sender, avoid opening them. Never click on a link within an email. Instead, leave the site, open a browser window, and type in the URL for the location you wish to visit.

Social Media Scams

Social media platforms are easy for scammers to use to capture personal information. These cybercriminals may impersonate friends, businesses, or the brands you know and follow. They often offer fake giveaways, ask for input through fake customer service accounts, or offer really good offers you know are too good to be true.

If you spot any of these types of actions or you receive friend requests from organizations or people you do not know, avoid them. Before accepting any friend request, scrutinize their profile to determine if you know this person.

Phone Call Scams (Vishing)

Vishing is a scam in which cybercriminals use phone calls to deceive individuals into sharing private information. For example, you may receive a call from a tech department stating that you need to provide access to your computer so they can handle a repair. Fake government agency calls are also common.

If you receive such a call, ask for the person’s name and where they are calling from. Then, hang up and find that company’s phone number online. Call the company or organization and ask if the call is genuine. Most of the time, it is not.

Protecting Yourself with Digital Banking

Digital banking provides convenience to you, allowing you to manage your money from a smartphone app or URL. However, it’s up to you to take action to protect that information.

  • Monitor your accounts weekly. Report any transactions that are not accurate.
  • Never provide anyone with your login credentials.
  • Change your credentials every month.

Digital banking lets you monitor transactions in real time. If you spot something happening, call the bank right away.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

Only engage with someone who is sending you requests for information. If you believe it was a scam, report it to your local authorities and disengage. Then, contact Bank of the Rockies immediately to protect your account.

Scams Are a Real Risk

Common scams listed here, including SMS phishing and social media scams, will never just go away. There will always be a new risk. However, staying on top of what’s occurring minimizes the risk of becoming a victim.

Contact Bank of the Rockies immediately if you suspect their accounts have been compromised. Explore Bank of the Rockies’ digital banking services for added security and to stay updated on cybersecurity tips throughout National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.