Protecting Your Financial Security: Recognizing and Avoiding Phishing Scams

Blog October 10, 2024 by American Riviera Bank

It's National Cybersecurity Awareness Month! At American Riviera Bank, Community Banking means not only providing tailored financial solutions but also ensuring the security of our valued customers. In an era of increasing digital interactions, it's crucial to stay vigilant against fraudulent activities. Let's work together to safeguard your financial well-being.

The Growing Threat of Phishing Scams¶

Recent data from the Federal Trade Commission reveals a concerning trend: American consumers lost an estimated $10 billion to phishing scams and related fraud in 2023, marking a 13.6% increase from the previous year. As your trusted local bank, we're committed to equipping you with the knowledge to protect yourself from these deceptive practices.

Empowering You Against Scammers¶

At American Riviera Bank, we believe that education is key to prevention. By learning to identify potential scams, you can confidently navigate your digital banking experience. Remember this simple yet powerful phrase: "Banks Never Ask That."

Here are four common phishing tactics to watch out for:

1. Text Messages: Legitimate banks, including American Riviera Bank, will never send you a text asking for your login credentials or personal information.
2. Emails: Be cautious of emails requesting you to click on suspicious links or provide sensitive data. Even if the sender claims to be from your bank, remember: Banks Never Ask That.
3. Phone Calls: No reputable bank, including ours, will ever call to verify your account number. If you're unsure about a call's legitimacy, hang up and contact us directly using our official phone number.
4. Payment Apps: Beware of messages claiming your account has been compromised and instructing you to transfer money to a new account. This is a scam tactic that banks never employ.

Your Partner in Financial Security¶

As part of our commitment to True Community Banking, we've joined forces with the American Bankers Association and financial institutions nationwide to combat phishing scams. We encourage you to visit www.BanksNeverAskThat.com for additional resources, including helpful tips, informative videos, and an interactive quiz to enhance your scam-spotting skills.

At American Riviera Bank, we're more than just your bank – we're your neighbors and partners in building a secure financial future. Share this valuable information with your friends and family, and together, let's create a community that's informed, vigilant, and protected against financial fraud. You can find more information on our website.

Remember, your security is our priority. If you ever have concerns about the legitimacy of a communication from us, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help, just as we've been serving our community with personalized care and expertise since 2006.