When a fraudster uses email or a text message to trick you into giving your private information to them, that’s called phishing. You may think the email or text comes from a legitimate company (a place you may even trust), but don’t be fooled. They’re designed to trick you into providing information to fraudsters who sell it to the highest bidder or use it for their benefit. And during the holidays, you’re at even more risk of being a victim of phishing.
QCB works hard to protect you and your information from fraudsters. We will NEVER call or email to ask for:
- Your account number or full Social Security number
- Your full debit or credit card number and CVV number
- Your PIN for your debit or credit card
- Your online banking password or security questions
Additionally, we’ll never address you as “user” or “yourname@gmail.com” in an official email from QCB. We won’t ask you to complete a “test” transaction using your account or text us personal or banking information.
Additional Tips to Protect You
You can protect yourself from phishing scams or other types of fraud by following these seven tips:
- Don’t open an email or text attachment if you’re unsure of the sender. Instead, you should contact the company contacting you online or by phone to verify the text or email.
- Avoid clicking social media ads as they may lead to fake websites. If you know the company and you’re comfortable with clicking, do so; otherwise, leave it alone.
- Verify that a website is secure before you buy anything on it. Be sure the URL begins with “https” or includes a closed lock icon in the address bar.
- Check your accounts regularly. Using online or mobile banking, review your account balance daily and set up alerts to keep you posted when your account balance falls below a specific limit, or a transaction clears.
- Keep your browser updated. Patches are released regularly to combat security threats. Once they become available, download and install them onto your computer or phone.
- Use the latest anti-virus and anti-malware software to protect your phone and computer. This type of software scans every file that comes through the Internet to your computer or phone to ensure it won’t damage your system.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, don’t “bite.” If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers who use phishing tactics are counting on you to throw caution to the wind – don’t be fooled.
What Should You Do If You Think You’re a Victim of Phishing?
If you received a fraudulent email or text message, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Your quick action will help eliminate future phishing incidents with others.
Here’s how:
- Forward any fraudulent email to the FTC’s Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. Forward a fraudulent text message to SPAM (7726).
- Report the phishing attack to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.
If you have any questions or concerns about an email or text from QCB, please give us a call at 405-755-1000. We’re happy to make sure you’re protected as your safety and peace of mind is our priority.
