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Tag: Scams

Text Scams

Smishing Text Scam

Written by CedarStone Bank News on . Posted in Privacy & Security.

Beware of releasing your personal information through a “smishing” scheme, in which fraudsters use fake messages to dupe people out of their personal information. This then allows the fraudsters to steal credit card details and other sensitive information.

Even folks well-versed in the cyber world can fall for scams like faked Postal Service texts that lure you in by saying a package cannot be delivered because they need a corrected address.

Here’s how the scam works… You are in a rush when you receive a message. You know you have packages being delivered — so you quickly filled out your address and billing information on a very official-looking website. And almost instantly you realize you may have done the wrong thing.

The USPS offers tips through its website on sniffing out “smishing,” but it all boils down to the basics of don’t click a link you don’t recognize and can’t verify and always be cautious about providing personal information when someone reaches out to you. Hackers send out hundreds of thousands of text messages a day hoping a small percentage of recipients will fall for their scam.

A Message from Melynda Bounds on Romance Scams

Written by CedarStone Bank News on . Posted in News & Events.

Many people are wiping out their 401Ks and investments sending money to people they’ve met online. These Romance Scammers have many ways of misleading their victims and can be very patient, sometimes spending a year or more getting to know them. Learn more about how to protect yourself from online fraud from Melynda Bounds at our Lebanon, TN Main Office.

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Shop Safely This Holiday Season

Written by CedarStone Bank on . Posted in News & Events. No Comments on Shop Safely This Holiday Season

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Lots of people will be doing their holiday shopping online, which creates opportunities for phishing, malware, and scams. But there are things you can do to make your online shopping more secure.

Be careful about emails. Some malicious activity comes in the form of holiday greetings. Only open emails from people and companies you know. Even then, it is best not to click on web links inside emails; go out to your browser and access the website there. If an email doesn’t look completely legitimate, even a personal one, check it out with the sender first.

Know your charities. Bad guys will take advantage of your generosity with appeals that pull on the heartstrings. If you see a charity you want to donate to, they will take it if you visit their website directly or send them a check.

Secure your system. Think of your computer, tablet or phone as a house: don’t leave the door unlocked. Here are some security issues you will want to consider:

•  Is your wi-fi connection password-protected?
•  Do you have a good antivirus program? How about malware detector? Ad and pop-up blockers?
•  Is your operating system and all your software updated/patched? This includes your browser, browser plug-ins, and any external programs you may use.
•  Did you know that attachments can carry viruses?

Only use secure sites. Even if your system is relatively secure—no system is perfect—websites you visit may not be. Sites whose web addresses begin with https (rather than http) are more secure. Take any warnings about security certificates seriously.

Monitor your accounts. Look at your credit card and checking accounts online very often. If you see suspicious activity, report it immediately.

Security risks may also come to you in the form of fake ads, messages inside of social media programs, and phone calls.

Hackers and online thieves are very good at what they do. A little extra care could save you time, money, and hassle.

More information is at the website for the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team. For users of mobile devices, additional precautions are recommended.

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Be aware of phone scams

Written by CedarStone Bank on . Posted in News & Events. No Comments on Be aware of phone scams

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Several of our customers have received phone calls from what appear to be scammers. Please take caution and be aware that CedarStone Bank does not call people to request financial information over the phone.

How to Detect a Phone Scam
Only speak with official representatives of your bank or credit card company in phone calls you initiate. Do not respond to requests for financial information over the phone, by email, or by calling a number sent to you in an email. Do not click on links in emails to financial websites you do not recognize. If any of these situations arise, there is a good chance it is a scam. Read more here.

If you receive a call from someone saying they are from CedarStone Bank, do not give out any financial information; call one of our offices immediately. If you find fraudulent or unauthorized charges on your credit card bill, report them immediately. If you receive a scam call from someone who requests financial information in a way that appears to be a scam, contact the authorities. 

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