Austin Bank - Fraud Prevention
In today's world of constantly advancing technology, protecting private information and avoiding scams can seem daunting. The security of our customers is a priority for Austin Bank. The bank utilizes multiple systems and processes to protect your information, however, we also want to educate our customers on the fraud landscape. We believe the more you know, the better prepared you will be to recognize and prevent fraudulent activity.
Some things to remember . . .
- Austin Bank will NEVER ask for your online banking password, debit card PIN, or any secure access code. Please do not give this information out to anyone, whether online, by email, phone, text, or in person. When in doubt, check with an Austin Bank team member and we can help determine if it is a fraud attempt.
- Do not trust Caller ID - it can be faked.
- Technology has made it easy for scammers to fake Caller ID information. They often do this so as to appear they are calling from legitimate sources - i.e. the Austin Bank Customer Care Center or Fraud Department.
- If someone calls you asking for personal information, hang up.
- If you feel the call may not be authentic, hang up and call back to a number you know is correct.
- For calls relating to debit card fraud, these are the numbers that are safe for you to call into:
- Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 800-644-9275
- Outside of these hours - 833-735-1892
- For calls relating to debit card fraud, these are the numbers that are safe for you to call into:
- Text messages may also be faked to appear valid.
- Austin Bank does offer Fraud Text alerts as a convenient alternative to phone calls.
- Faked text messages include a call back number that is very similar to the Austin Bank Fraud Center number, but is not exact. It could also include a fraudulent link, do not click on it.
- If you suspect fraud on your debit card, or receive a message alerting you to potential fraud, these are the only numbers to call:
- Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 800-644-9275
- or, 833-735-1892
- When calling in, DO NOT provide sensitive information including your card number, PIN, CVC code (3 digit number on the back of your card) or your online banking credentials. Austin Bank will never ask for this information.
Certain personal information can allow thieves to open credit cards, apply for loans and services, set up bank accounts, and even access and take over your existing accounts. Knowing what fraudsters are capable of, learning how to protect yourself, and implementing what you learn is the easiest and smartest way to protect your finances.
You can view our blog for additional fraud prevention information. There are several articles available detailing individual fraud schemes as well as additional ways to protect yourself.
Check out this helpful resource from the Federal Trade Commission - 10 Things You Can Do to Avoid Fraud.