What To Do If You Experience Fraud
Even with the best precautions, scams and fraud can still happen. If it does, knowing what steps to take right away can make all the difference in protecting your finances and recovering more quickly.
This month, we’re highlighting trusted resources and practical tips you can turn to if you ever find yourself facing fraud.
Trusted Resources to Help You Take Action
Here are some helpful websites that provide step-by-step guidance and tools if you ever experience fraud:
- You can report suspicious activity directly to the Federal Trade Commission through ReportFraud.ftc.gov, the government’s main hub for tracking scams.
- The FTC’s Consumer Advice guide on What To Do If You Were Scammed offers clear, step-by-step instructions on how to act quickly if you’ve been targeted.
- If your personal information has been stolen, the Identity Theft Resource Center provides free tools and expert support to help you recover.
- For tips on recognizing scams before they happen, the FTC’s How To Avoid a Scam guide is a practical place to start.
- The Banks Never Ask That fraud prevention campaign makes it easy (and even fun) to practice spotting common banking scams.
- And for a broad overview of different fraud types and where to report them, USAGov’s Scams and Fraud page is a helpful resource.
These resources can walk you through what to do, who to contact and how to reduce the risk of future fraud attempts.
Tips to Take Action Right Away
- Report It Immediately: If you notice suspicious activity, let us know as soon as possible. Quick reporting improves the chances of limiting losses and gives our team the opportunity to guide you through the next steps.
- Change Your Passwords: When fraud is suspected, update your online banking password and any related logins right away. Choose strong, unique passwords and avoid reusing the same one across different accounts.
- Keep a Close Eye on Your Accounts: Regular monitoring helps you spot unusual activity faster. Make it a habit to review your accounts often - at least once a month when your statement is ready. Keep in mind that there are time limits for disputing charges or reporting fraud, so catching issues early is key.
- Turn On Account Alerts: Mobile and online banking alerts can notify you in real-time when transactions post to your account. These notifications make it easier to spot unauthorized activity quickly.
- Protect Your Personal Information: Be cautious with sensitive details like account numbers, login credentials, or other private information. Keeping this information secure is one of the best defenses against fraud.
It’s important to remember you’re not alone. Scammers are very skilled at making their schemes seem real, and it’s easier than most people think to fall for them. If it happens, there’s no need to feel embarrassed. What matters most is reaching out for help and taking the right steps forward.
If you think you may have inadvertently shared your personal information with a scammer, please contact us as soon as possible at (805) 733-7600.