The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and cherished moments with family and friends. However, it also brings an unfortunate surge in cyber threats. At Minnwest Bank, we consider your financial security a top priority. We’ve rounded up the top threats to watch for and tips to navigate the online world safely during this festive period.
Here are the types of scams and cybersecurity threats to watch for:
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Phishing Attacks:
Phishing attacks involve cybercriminals posing as legitimate entities, often via emails or messages. They aim to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
Imagine receiving an email that appears to be from a popular online retailer, claiming you've earned a special holiday reward or discount. The email prompts you to click a link to claim your prize, but it's actually an attempt to steal your login credentials.
Stay vigilant for emails or messages from unknown sources. If you receive a link that seems suspicious, avoid clicking it. For an extra layer of security, our mobile banking app allows you to monitor your accounts in real time.
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Fake Domains:
Cybercriminals create imposter websites that mimic legitimate ones. These fake domains aim to lure unsuspecting customers or employees, potentially stealing sensitive information or spreading malware.
Shopping for holiday gifts, you're browsing items on an e-commerce site that looks just like a reputable big-brand store. Unbeknownst to you, it's a fraudulent site designed to harvest your payment details.
Double-check website URLs, especially during transactions. With mobile banking, you can quickly review your account status before or after making any purchases.
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Suspicious Links:
Cybercriminals embed malicious links in emails or messages. Clicking on these links can lead to fraudulent websites, potentially spreading malware or stealing login credentials.
You receive a text message with a link claiming to lead to a special holiday offer. Without thinking, you click the link, only to end up on a malicious site that infects your device.
Hover over links to preview the destination URL before clicking. Never download attachments from unfamiliar sources. If you ever receive an email or text message claiming to be from Minnwest Bank that seems suspicious, reach out to us right away.
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Social Engineering:
Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information. Cybercriminals may impersonate trusted sources or use personal information to gain trust.
Imagine you receive a call from someone claiming to be a customer service representative from a popular online marketplace. They ask for your account details to 'verify' your recent purchase, but in reality, they're trying to steal your information.
Be cautious of requests for sensitive information. If something feels unusual, verify it with us. We're here to help you stay protected.
How Minnwest Bank supports your security
Our mobile banking app puts your accounts at your fingertips, allowing you to monitor transactions and set up alerts for any unusual activity. The Secure Alerts service provides an added layer of protection, notifying you of any potentially fraudulent transactions.
What to do if you suspect fraud
If you ever suspect a scam, contact us immediately. Your vigilance is a powerful tool in combating fraud, and we're here to assist you every step of the way.
At Minnwest Bank, we’re partners in your financial journey, and we're committed to helping you keep your accounts safe. With the right knowledge and tools, you can enjoy a secure and joyful holiday season. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we'll ensure your holidays are filled with warmth and worry-free celebrations.
