Robocalls and Phishing Messages

Scammers are getting more advanced in their efforts to trick you and gather sensitive information. Robocalls and phishing messages pose a significant threat to your privacy and financial security. By recognizing the signs of fraudulent activity and taking proactive measures, you can decrease the chances of becoming a victim of these scams.

Robocalls and phishing messages are automated types of communication that aim to deceive people into giving away their personal or financial information. These fraudulent attempts often appear as legitimate calls or messages from trusted sources, such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies. However, they are created by fraudsters with the intent to steal sensitive data or money. It is important to be aware of these threats and to take appropriate measures to protect oneself from falling victim to these scams.

The signs of robocalls and phishing messages are:

• Unknown Numbers: Be cautious of calls or messages from unfamiliar numbers, particularly if they urge you to take immediate action or provide sensitive information.

• Urgency: Fraudulent communications often create a sense of urgency, pressuring individuals to act quickly without thinking.

• Requests for Personal Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information like passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card details via phone or email.

• Poor Grammar or Spelling: Many phishing messages contain grammatical errors or spelling mistakes, indicating that they may not be from a reputable source.

Measures you can take to protect yourself from robocalls and phishing messages:

• Ignore Unknown Numbers: Avoid answering calls or responding to messages from unknown numbers. If it's important, the caller will likely leave a voicemail or send a follow-up message.
• Stay Calm: If you receive a suspicious call or message, remain calm and avoid taking immediate action. Take a moment to assess the situation before responding.
• National Do Not Call Registry: To reduce the number of unwanted robocalls you receive, register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry. Visit www.donotcall.gov to register your number.
• Use Caller ID: Utilize caller ID features on your phone to screen incoming calls and identify potential spam or fraudulent numbers. You can even do a web search on a phone number and often find that the number is a known scam.
• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics by regularly reviewing updates from trusted sources, such as government agencies or consumer protection organizations.

If you come across a robocall or phishing message, it is important to report it to the appropriate authorities. You can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or with the Federal Communications Commission. It is important to stay vigilant and educate yourself on how to protect your personal information from scammers. Remember, reporting suspicious activity can help combat fraud and create a safer environment for everyone.

At Exchange Bank, we are fully committed to protecting your customers from scams. If you have any concerns or questions about potential scams, rest assured that we have the expertise and resources to help. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance and support.