Don’t Take the Bait on Phishing Scams

Don’t Take the Bait on Phishing Scams 

In today’s digital world, scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people into giving up sensitive information. Phishing scams—where fraudsters try to steal your personal and financial information—are among the most common tactics used. Here’s how to recognize, avoid, and report phishing attempts so you can keep your information safe. 

Understand What Phishing Looks Like 

Phishing messages often appear to come from a trusted source, like your bank, a government agency, or even someone you know. They typically ask you to: 

• Click a link to update or verify personal information. 

• Open an attachment to view an urgent message. 

• Log in to confirm a purchase you didn’t make. 

Scammers use these tactics to try to obtain personal information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and social security numbers. 

Be Wary of Suspicious Links and Attachments 

Hover over links (without clicking) to see where they lead. Don't click if the URL looks strange or doesn’t match the legitimate website’s address. Attachments can also contain malware, which could compromise your device and steal information. 

Look for Warning Signs 

Phishing emails and texts often contain red flags, such as: 

• Poor grammar or spelling mistakes. 

• Generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your name. 

• Urgency or threats (e.g., “Act now, or your account will be closed”). 

Verify the Source 

Don't respond directly if you’re unsure whether a message is genuine. Instead: 

• Visit the company’s official website and use the contact information there to confirm the message’s legitimacy. 

• Call the company using a verified phone number, not the one provided in the suspicious message. 

Update Passwords Regularly and Avoid Reuse 

Avoid using the same password across multiple sites and choose strong passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Regularly updating passwords helps protect your accounts from unauthorized access. 

Stay Up to Date on Security Practices 

Scammers continuously adapt, so staying informed on the latest phishing techniques and security practices is essential. Follow trusted sources for updates on digital security. 

Educate Your Family and Friends 

Scammers target everyone, so it’s also essential to spread awareness to protect others. Share these tips with family members, friends, and colleagues, especially those less familiar with digital security. 

At Huron Valley State Bank we’re committed to helping you protect your information. If you are concerned about your account’s security or believe a phishing attempt has targeted you, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Working together, we can keep your information safe and secure.