Banks Never Ask That

Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts, and calls from scammers pretending to be their bank, referred to as "phishing" scams. And in this time of expanded use of online and mobile banking, the problem is only growing worse. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission's report on fraud estimates that American consumers lost a staggering $8.8 billion to phishing scams and other fraud in 2022 - an increase of more than 65% over 2021¹. 

 

CNB St. Louis Bank employs advanced technology tools, rigid security protocols, and our teams keep a close watch on account activity, all in an effort to provide to first class protection to accountholders.  Unfortunately, even the most sophisticated security does not prevent YOU from inadvertently giving information to a scammer that allows them access to your account. With phishing attacks, your vulnerability is directly related to your awareness to fraud scams and your ability to discern a legitimate bank communication from a scam.

Phishing scams aren't so scary when you know what to look for!  At CNB St. Louis Bank, we're committed to helping you spot scams, and your awareness is an extra layer of protection for your account. We've joined with the American Bankers Association and banks across the country in a nationwide effort to fight phishing - one scam at a time. 

We want every bank customer to become a pro at spotting a phishing scam - and stop banks imposters in their tracks. It starts with these four words: Banks Never Ask That. Because when you know something sounds suspicious, you'll be less likely to be fooled. 

Banks will NEVER call YOU to ask you for your online banking information. If you didn't initiate the call, refrain from sharing the following: 

Phishing scams can seem very real and while some seem obvious, others are harder to spot! Scammers have learned to play on emotions, creating scenarios where consumers may feel rushed, scared for a loved one's safety, or concerned they will be denied important online access to an account or service if they don't act quickly.  Successful scammers are experts at designing scenarios that get their target to take the bait. 

If it is a phone call from someone stating they are with CNB St. Louis Bank or any other financial institution and want to verify the authenticity of the call, get the callers name, then simply hang up the phone and call the financial institution - even if the caller ID appears to be correct. This ensures you are communicating with a legitimate employee of your bank. 

Learn more about phishing and ways to avoid being a victim of phishing by following along with CNB St. Louis Bank on social media or go to www.banksneveraskthat.com for all the tips and tricks!  

We're Here to Help! 

References:

• ¹ New FTC Data Show Consumers Reported Losing Nearly $8.8 Billion to Scams in 2022 (2023, February 23). Retrieved from Federal Trade Commission: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/02/new-ftc-data-show-consumers-reported-losing-nearly-88-billion-scams-2022