*First National Community Bank’s blog does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, investment or other professional advice. Recipients should consult their professional advisors for advice.
In today's digital age, many of us tend to pay for purchases with cards, rather than cash -- especially when it comes to paying for larger purchases. As a community bank committed to your financial well-being, we understand the importance of safeguarding your hard-earned money from card fraud scams. That's why we've compiled some essential tips to help you protect yourself against card fraud:
- Be Aware Of Skimming Devices:
Skimming typically occurs when a device, known as a skimmer, is placed on or near a legitimate card reader. That could be an ATM or a point-of-sale (POS) terminal at a store or gas pump. The skimmer is designed to capture card data. Even with chip cards, many terminals still use the card’s magnetic stripe in addition to or instead of the chip. It is important to inspect the card reader before inserting your card and look for any evidence of tampering.
- Monitor Your Accounts Regularly:
Make it a habit to review your bank and credit card statements frequently. Check for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity. The sooner you spot any irregularities, the quicker you can take action to prevent further damage.
- Secure Your Personal Information:
Be cautious about sharing your card details, PINs, or online banking credentials. Avoid storing this information in easily accessible places, and never disclose it over the phone or via email unless you initiated the contact with a trusted entity.
- Use Secure Websites and ATMs:
When making online purchases or accessing your account through a website, ensure that the website is secure. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar and use websites with "https" in the URL. Similarly, when using ATMs, choose well-lit and secure locations, and be vigilant for any signs of tampering.
- Protect Your Devices:
Keep your devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, secure by using strong passwords or biometric authentication methods. Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated to safeguard against malware and hacking attempts.
- Be Wary of Phishing Attempts:
Fraudsters often use phishing emails or messages to trick unsuspecting individuals into divulging their personal information. Be skeptical of unexpected emails or texts asking for sensitive data or urging urgent action. When in doubt, contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number or website.
- Opt for Contactless Payments:
Contactless payments, such as tap-to-pay cards or mobile wallets, offer added security by reducing the need to physically hand over your card or enter your PIN. These methods also typically employ special technologies to protect your data during transactions.
At First National Community Bank, we're committed to helping you navigate the complexities of financial security. By following these tips and remaining vigilant, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to card fraud and enjoy greater peace of mind in managing your finances. As your locally owned community bank of choice, the success of your financial future is top of mind. We offer Personal Checking Accounts, Money Market Accounts, Personal Savings Accounts, CDs, IRAs, Mortgages, Personal Loans, Business Loans of all shapes and sizes, and Personal Credit Cards,
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