When it comes to scams, the best offense is a good defense. Staying informed about the latest scams and being able to identify them will help keep you, and your accounts safe. BankGloucester will never ask you to provide account information, pin numbers, or passwords over phone or email.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is when scammers use email, text messages, phone calls, or fake websites to pretend to be someone you know or trust, such as a bank, a utility company, or an online payment service. They may claim there is a problem with your account, ask you to confirm your information, offer you a refund or say they have noticed suspicious activity on your account. In many cases, they will try to get you to click on a link or an attachment that could infect your device with malware or direct you to a fake website that looks like the real one.

“Spoofing” is a technique used by scammers that allows them to make it appear as though a call or message is coming from the banks phone number. When in doubt, call the bank directly to speak to a bank representative.

Protecting Yourself Against Scams

The best way to keep your information safe is to recognize the warning signs of a scam and report any suspicious communications to the Bank. It’s good practice to check your financial statements regularly to ensure there is not unauthorized account activity, especially if you think that a scammer is targeting you.

When something feels off, it probably is. Don’t click on any links or open any attachments in suspicious messages. If you receive a message that looks like phishing, do not respond. Instead call the Bank directly to report your concerns and secure your account.

If you believe that you may have given your information to a scammer, don’t panic. Before doing anything else, change your passwords and PINs for your online accounts. Then, notify the Bank and any other financial institutions where you have accounts with that may be affected. Depending on the situation, you may also want to consider placing a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit reports as an extra precaution.

Tools & Resources

Card Valet – Available for free to all BankGloucester debit card holders, Card Valet makes it easy to lock your card instantly, create alerts, set up purchase restrictions and more. To get started download the Card Valet app from the App Store or Google Play.

BG Security Center – Check out our Security Center to stay up to date on the latest security news and view additional resources.

Banks Never Ask That – Learn how to identify scams quickly by knowing what details your bank might legitimately request from you, and what information they will never ask for at BanksNeverAskThat.com

FTC Consumer Information – Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to learn more about scams and how to protect yourself.

Create a Recovery Plan – If you believe that you may have been a victim of identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report your concerns and develop a recovery plan.

Remember, we’re here to help. If you have any questions or concerns about your account security or privacy, please contact us at 978-283-8200 or visit us at any of our branches.