Scams are becoming more common, and they can be harder to spot than ever. A text, phone call or email may look like it’s coming from your bank, when it’s a scammer trying to get your personal information or access to your money.

That’s why First Keystone Community Bank is participating in the American Bankers Association’s #BanksNeverAskThat and #PracticeSafeChecks campaigns.

Know What Your Bank Will and Won’t Ask For
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself is knowing what your bank will never ask you for. Scammers may contact you and say there’s a problem with your account. They may tell you that your debit card has been locked, there’s suspicious activity or you need to verify your account right away. They may then ask you to click a link or provide information like your password, PIN or account information.

Don’t rush to respond. Stop and think first.
If you receive a message or phone call that seems suspicious, contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number. Don’t use the phone number or link provided in the suspicious message.

Be Careful with Unexpected Texts
Scam texts are becoming a common way for criminals to reach people.
For example, you might receive a message that says: “Your account has been locked. Click here to verify your information.” It may look legitimate, but clicking on the link could take you to a fake website designed to steal your information.
Before clicking, ask yourself:
• Was I expecting this message?
• Do I recognize the sender?
• Is it asking for personal or account information?
• Is it telling me I need to act immediately?
• If something doesn’t seem right, don’t click.

Practice Safe Checks
Checks can also be targeted by scammers. Criminals may steal or create fake checks, so it’s important to pay attention to your accounts and the checks you write.
A few simple steps can help:
• Keep your checks in a secure place.
• Know who you’re sending a check to.
• Keep track of the checks you write.
• Regularly review your account for anything you don’t recognize.
Report suspicious activity as soon as possible.

When in Doubt, Stop and Verify
Scammers want you to act quickly. Taking a few extra seconds to stop and verify a message, phone call or request could help protect your information and your money. If you receive something that doesn’t feel right, don’t respond right away. Contact First Keystone directly and let us help you determine if it’s legitimate.

At First Keystone Community Bank, we’re committed to helping our customers stay informed and protect themselves from fraud.
Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay protected.