Avoid Banking and Credit Card Fraud this Holiday Season
11/26/2024
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a prime time for fraudsters to take advantage of increased spending and busy schedules. Here are some essential tips to help you avoid banking and credit card fraud during this festive period.
Monitor your accounts regularly: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. Regularly check your account transactions online or via mobile banking to spot any unauthorized activity quickly. Set up alerts to receive notifications for any large or suspicious transactions.
Use secure networks: When shopping online, make sure you’re using a secure and private Wi-Fi network. Avoid making purchases over public Wi-Fi, as these networks are often less secure and be a target for hackers looking to steal information.
Don’t give out banking information over the phone: When it comes to people calling you, fraudsters are very advanced, they “spoof” phone numbers and pretend to act like they work for a bank/credit union, or law enforcement. So always make sure to do your due diligence and verify the person you are talking to on the phone. Never give out your account/card information over the phone because GPO would never ask for your information as we have all of that on file. Fraudsters tend to use scare tactics to phish information out of you.
Beware of phishing scams: During the holidays, phishing emails and fake websites are more prevalent. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information or directing you to click on suspicious links. Always verify the legitimacy of the sender and the website before entering any sensitive information.
Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Strengthen your online security by using complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection on your accounts.
Be cautious of public ATMs: When withdrawing cash, use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas, preferably inside bank branches. Fraudsters can install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your card information. Always inspect the machine for any signs of tampering. Use (ATM Locator) to locate GPO’s network of 90,000+ secure ATMs.
Verify Checks: If you ever receive a check that you are not sure about whether its fraudulent or not, or if you received a call from someone and you are not sure, reach out to us (GPO) or go down to your nearest branch and do not be afraid to ask questions/get some verification. A lot of times when members come in and ask questions/explain the situation they are in, very quickly we can detect if It is a scam or not and help mitigate that for our members before it escalates to losses.
Keep your cards safe: During the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, it’s easy to misplace your credit or debit cards. Keep them in a secure place and avoid carrying too many cards with you. If you lose a card, report it to your bank immediately.
Shop with trusted merchants: Stick to well-known and reputable retailers when shopping online. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may be scams designed to steal your payment information.
Protect your personal information: Be mindful of sharing personal information, especially on social media. Fraudsters can use details like your full name, address, and date of birth to commit identity theft.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from banking and credit card fraud during the holiday season, allowing you to enjoy the festivities with peace of mind. Stay vigilant, and have a safe and happy holiday season!
