Add fraud prevention to your shopping list.

Make sure your online shopping stays fraud free with a few of our security tips.

• Always verify the security of a website. Make sure the web address is safe by ensuring it starts with “https//” the “s” at the end verifies the security of the site. Also, look for the “closed lock” at the top of the page of your browser. This symbol means encryption is being used and the transmission of your information (credit card, name and address, etc.) is secure.
• Never click links from unknown or unsolicited emails or texts. This is a form of phishing and scammers can steal your confidential information with this type of fraud.
• Beware of deals that seem too good to be true. These websites, although they may look legitimate, they are not! Fraudsters try to trick you into entering your personal information for scamming purposes.
• Make sure your anti-virus software is up to date on your computer. This will help protect your computer from malware and protect your personal information from scammers.
• Never give access to your computer to an unsolicited caller. Caller ID may list our bank name or another company you know and the area code may appear to be local, but do not trust that information as this is a common form of fraud.
• Watch out for charities you don’t know asking for a donation. It’s important to stay diligent and do your homework about the charities you are considering giving a donation–ensure they are not fake charities.
• Be aware of scams involving the delivery of packages. Scammers send notifications from websites that look like they are from a real company, but when you click on the link malware may be downloaded to your computer or mobile device. Use the tracking number provided in the confirmation email from the online company where you purchased your items.
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you are shopping in stores remain cautious of the location of your purse, wallet, phone and packages. Shoppers walking away from their cart are easy targets for thefts. Also, don’t leave shopping bags in your vehicle.
• Use our Brella App to monitor your debit card use. You can check for unauthorized transactions, turn your debit card off and back on if it’s misplaced and report your card if it’s lost or stolen.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Consumer Advice website provides valuable information on the latest scams, and guidance to help you avoid, report, and recover from them.