Phishing for information – what you need to know

In today’s digital age, phishing attempts are rampant. It’s essential to be vigilant. Consider this:

You receive an email: “Your Netflix subscription has ended because we couldn’t validate your account. Click here to restart your membership…”

Hold on! If your card information remains unchanged, why this email? This could be a phishing ploy, with potential outcomes ranging from malware attacks to exposure of your email contacts.

Spotting Phishing Attempts

Phishing isn’t limited to emails. Texts and social media messages are equally prone. Watch out for:

• False urgency or threats.
• Messages requesting sensitive information.
• Impersonal greetings.
• Logo discrepancies.
• Grammatical errors and misspellings.
• Dubious links or mismatched domains.

Verifying Suspicious Messages

Doubting an email’s legitimacy? Instead of clicking any link, directly contact the concerned company. Genuine emails will align with their records. If you ascertain a phishing attempt, report it. On Outlook, use “Report Phishing” and for platforms like Gmail or Yahoo, use the “Report Phishing” option in the email’s top right.

Inadvertently Clicked a Suspicious Link? Act Quickly:

• Disconnect from network/internet connection.
• Shut all browser windows.
• Remove automatic downloads.
• Scan all devices on the network.
• Update passwords of vital accounts.
• Enable fraud alerts.
• Inform contacts about potential risks.

Additionally, register a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov/Complaint. For suspicious texts, forward them to SPAM (7726). Remember, prompt action is paramount in preventing fraud.

Safety First

• Never disclose your PIN, account number, or SSN over phone/email.
• Avoid unknown email hyperlinks.
• Maintain updated security software.
• Use website checkers for website authenticity.
• Automate device software updates.
• Adopt multifactor authentication, like fingerprints or verification codes.
• Regularly back up data externally or on the cloud. In case of a compromise, backups ensure data integrity.

Stay informed about prevalent scams, both local and national. Regularly monitor account balances and alert your financial institution of discrepancies. Note: Fidelity Bank will never solicit personal details over phone or email. If you face any such incidents, reach out to Fidelity Bank at 1-800-388-4380.

Stay safe and vigilant!

Questions?

Fidelity’s Client Care Center Bankers are here to help. For assistance, call 1.800.388.4380. The hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Learn More

Fidelity Bank has built a strong history as a trusted financial advisor and continues its mission of exceeding client expectations through a unique banking experience. It operates 20 full-service offices throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties, along with a limited production commercial office in Luzerne County and a Fidelity Bank Wealth Management Office in Schuylkill County. Fidelity Bank provides a digital banking experience online at www.bankatfidelity.com, through the Fidelity Mobile Banking app, and in the Client Care Center at 1-800-388-4380. Additionally, the Bank offers full-service Wealth Management & Brokerage Services, a Mortgage Center, and an array of personal and business banking products and services.