The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes the mad rush to find the perfect gift for those special people on your list. Unfortunately, this is also when you need to keep a closer eye on your accounts due to increased activity from fraudsters. While millions of credit and debit card transactions are conducted safely every day, the increased volume during the holiday season makes consumers more susceptible to scams. Here are some things to look out for to keep your holiday merry and bright:
1. Beware of fraud scams via text messages. Do not click on any links in unsolicited text messages claiming to be from your bank, especially if they mention suspicious activity or fraud. These messages are often phishing attempts designed to steal your personal information. If you receive such a text, do not engage with it. Instead, contact your bank directly using a verified phone number from their official website.
2. Check your accounts. Utilize online and mobile banking for an up-to-the-minute list of transactions.
3. Use account alerts. Set up customized account alerts in your online and mobile banking account to stay informed. You can do this by clicking "Alerts" in the menu of Rockland Trust Online and Mobile Banking.
4. Make sure you only make purchases on secure websites. Look for indicators such as a closed padlock, an unbroken key, or "https" in the URL bar of the webpage.
5. Be safe when using ATMs and other keypads. Be vigilant when using ATMs and keypads at stores and gas pumps. Use one hand to cover your other hand when entering your PIN. Also, be on the lookout for indications that an ATM/keypad may have been tampered with.
6. Keep your private information private. Got an email, text, or call that claims to be from your bank, but is asking for your PIN or password? Hang up! Banks will never contact you and ask you for your sensitive information or credentials.
7. Do not give out your card number over the phone or online to an unknown vendor or merchant. Do not give out your card information until you can confirm that a particular business is legitimate.
8. Consider using only one card to purchase gifts. Reducing the number of cards you carry at this time of year could reduce your potential for loss and/or exposure to fraud. Taking only one debit or credit card can also help you better track your holiday spending and keep your budget in check.
9. If a holiday sale for an item seems too good to believe, then don't believe it. We recommend only shopping at websites you know and trust.
10. Watch out for online holiday cards. These e-cards may be scams linked to fraudulent websites where scammers hope you'll enter your sensitive information in to redeem a supposed gift card.
11. Assume every email is a phishing attempt. Make sure to look closely at the email address before opening the email. For example, some phishing emails use "+" instead of "t".
If you have any concerns about activity on your account, please contact us as soon as possible. For more tips on banking safety and other financial topics, visit our Learning Center.
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