Protect Yourself from Scams

Scams are becoming more sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting individuals through various methods like phishing, fake charities, and impersonation. By staying vigilant, verifying unexpected contacts, and protecting your personal information, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these schemes. Understanding the red flags and knowing how to respond can help keep you and your finances secure.

Here are some practical tips to help you protect yourself from common scams:

• Be skeptical of unsolicited contacts: Scammers frequently pose as trusted organizations, such as banks, government agencies, or charities, to trick you into sharing your personal information. Always verify the identity of anyone who contacts you unexpectedly—especially if they ask for personal information, payment, or access to your computer.
• Double-check before you click: Links in emails, texts, and social media can appear genuine but may direct you to fake websites designed to steal your information or even download viruses onto your device. Always hover over any link to check where it actually leads, and if anything seems suspicious, don’t click. Stay cautious to keep your personal and financial information secure.
• Trust your gut: If something seems too good to be true or makes you feel uneasy, it probably is. Scammers often lure you with surprise prizes, urgent demands, or fake charity requests, especially during crises. Be cautious with unexpected contacts—whether it’s a limited-time offer, a donation plea, or a pressure to act fast. Take a moment to verify, research, and trust your instincts before providing any information or making a decision.
• Keep your info private: Never share your personal or financial information unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient. And remember, Forward Bank will never ask for sensitive information like your PIN or password via email or text.

Moving Your Security Forward

At Forward Bank, we’re committed to helping you stay safe from scams. Remember, if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and take the time to verify any request for personal or financial information.

If you have any questions or suspect fraudulent activity, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. Our team is here to assist you in identifying potential scams and protecting your accounts. Together, we can make sure your information stays secure and your peace of mind intact.