GONE PHISHING LATELY? Fraudsters have become increasingly adept at getting cardholders to share the personal information they need to commit fraud. These fraudsters pose as financial institution call center agents. Or, they send text messages that look like they are coming from your institution, warning of suspicious transaction activities.
Thwart fraud with a few tips from Lake Region Bank. We can help make sure your debit card and other personal information isn’t snagged.
What to Expect from Lake Region Bank
When confirming transactions, Lake Region Bank’s automated dialer will only request your zip code, and no other personal information, unless you confirm that a transaction is fraudulent. Only then will you be transferred to an agent who will ask questions to confirm that you are the actual cardholder before going through your transactions with you.
If at any point you are uncertain about questions being asked or the call itself, hang up and call us directly at (320) 235-5900. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be our call center and asking to verify transactions, you shouldn’t have to provide any information other than your zip code, and a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the transaction provided.
How to Spot Phishing
Phishing fraudsters will often ask cardholders to verify fake transactions. When the cardholder says no, they did not perform those transactions, the fraudster then says that their card will be blocked, a new card will be issued, and that they need the card’s PIN and 3-digit CV2 security code to put them on the new card. Many people believe this and provide this sensitive information. Providing your PIN will allow a criminal to access your checking account funds. The 3-digit CV2 code on the back of the card will allow a fraudster to conduct card-not-present transactions, such as online purchases.
Lake Region Bank will NEVER ask you for your PIN or the 3-digit CV2 security code on the back of your card over the phone. DO NOT GIVE THEM OUT, NO MATTER WHAT SOMEONE MIGHT SAY.
Instead, hang up and call us directly at (320) 235-5900.
Staying Ahead of Phishing Fraud
Regularly check your account online to see if there are any suspicious transactions that have occurred, especially if you are unsure about a call or text message you’ve received. If anything looks amiss, call us directly at (320) 235-5900 for assistance. Ask to speak to one of our personal bankers.
If you have received a voice message from us and are unsure about responding to it, call us directly at (320) 235-5900 and ask to speak to a personal banker. Better to be safe than sorry! Thank you for your continued diligence against fraudsters.