Protecting Yourself from Imposters
MAINSTREET BANK
At MainStreet Bank, your security is our top priority. We want to make you aware of a growing threat: bank imposters. These fraudsters impersonate bank representatives to trick you into revealing sensitive information or transferring money. By understanding their tactics and knowing what to look for, you can protect yourself and your finances.
How Imposters Target You
Fraudsters often use sophisticated methods to gain your trust. They may:
- Call, email, or text you unexpectedly: They might claim there’s an issue with your account, a suspicious transaction, or an urgent security matter that requires your immediate attention.
- Use urgency and fear: They pressure you to act quickly, threatening to close your account or freeze your funds if you don’t comply.
- Spoof phone numbers: They can make it appear as though their call is coming from MainStreet Bank’s official phone number.
- Reference personal information: They might use details they’ve found online to sound more legitimate, such as your name, address, or even a recent transaction.
Risks to Your Digital Banking Services
Imposters specifically target your digital access to your accounts to gain control and steal funds. They may try to trick you into:
- Making transfers and payments: An imposter might claim they need you to make a test payment or transfer funds to a “secure” account to resolve an issue. In reality, you are sending money directly to the fraudster.
- Authorizing ACH and wire transfers: They could pressure you to approve an ACH debit or initiate a wire transfer, often claiming it’s a necessary step to “unblock” your account or reverse a fraudulent charge. Once a wire transfer is sent, it is very difficult to recover.
- Providing sensitive information: They may ask for your online banking username, password, one-time passcodes, Social Security Number, or other personal details. This information gives them direct access to your accounts.
Tips to Protect Yourself
Protecting yourself is easier than you think. Follow these essential tips:
- Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Contact: If you receive an unexpected call, text, or email from someone claiming to be from MainStreet Bank, be cautious. Hang up or delete the message.
- Never Share Sensitive Information: MainStreet Bank will never call, text, or email you to ask for your online banking password, one-time passcodes, or full Social Security Number. If anyone asks for this information, it is a scam.
- Initiate Contact Yourself: If you are concerned about a communication, hang up and call MainStreet Bank directly using the number on the back of your debit card or our official website. Do not call a number provided by the suspicious caller.
- Verify Your Account Status: Log in to your MainStreet Bank account through our official mobile app or website to check for any alerts or suspicious activity.
- Look for Red Flags: Be wary of urgent requests, threats, and language that sounds unusual for a bank. Imposters often use generic greetings and may have poor grammar or spelling in emails and texts.
Your vigilance is our greatest defense against these scams. If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a scam or have provided information to an imposter, we’re here to help! Contact your Business Banker or Relationship Manager today.
