Tips to keep your bank account safe.
Educating yourself about common financial scams, like phishing, fraudulent account login pages, or data breaches, can help you better protect your bank account. Whether you’re browsing online or checking email, it’s best to avoid clicking any suspicious links.
Protect your sensitive information with these additional tips and strategies:
- Connect to the internet through a virtual private network (VPN)
- Use strong and unique passwords
- Monitor activity across all your accounts
- Turn on two-factor or multi-factor authentication
- Consider using a password manager
- Avoid engaging ATMs in common tourist areas
- Report lost or stolen credit and debit cards immediately
- Change passwords regularly
Properly disposing of personal documents, like credit card and checking account statements, can also help keep your bank account safe. Set up alerts to be notified of any unusual or unauthorized activities. Log in to your bank account using trusted devices, not through unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
Mobile banking safety tips.
Smartphones are convenient and capable of accomplishing nearly everything a desktop computer can. However, they may be just as prone to fraudulent activity as any other device that connects to the internet. Stay safe while banking or performing any other activity on your mobile device with these important tips:
- Only download apps through verified platforms such as the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store
- Keep your phone updated with the latest security measures
- Safeguard access to your phone by enabling a password, PIN, or biometric authentication
- Install and periodically run antivirus software on your phone
- Lock your phone when it’s not in use
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links in text messages or on social media posts
If you do receive a text message that looks like it’s being sent from your bank, don’t click through any advertised links or call (or text) any phone numbers that may be listed in the message. Instead, verify a direct phone number to your local branch or customer service line. A bank representative can confirm whether your account requires attention. If you find out the communication you received was fake, you can then block the number to prevent any further attempts at fraud.
What to do if your bank account is compromised.
If you suspect that your bank account has been compromised, immediately alert your bank. A bank representative can help direct your next steps, which may include reviewing your account for fraud or replacing your compromised debit or credit card. If fraudsters have stolen your bank account number, your bank will likely close your account to prevent any further activity.
Once you’ve notified your bank, report any fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a police report. It’s also recommended that you scan your devices with antivirus software should you believe a security breach happened through an internet connection. In the ensuing months, continue to monitor your credit report and other bank accounts to ensure that sensitive information remains protected.
Protect your bank account against cybercrime.
There are several strategies you can use to keep your bank account safe, whether you bank through your desktop PC or mobile device. Since no safety protocol is bulletproof, your goal is to make it harder for criminals to obtain your information. Connect with our customer care team at Popular Direct and learn how you can take a proactive approach to ensuring your personal and financial information stays safe and secure And if you feel you’ve been a victim of identity theft, a bank account takeover, micro-deposit scam, or any other unusual account activity, call 1-800-274-5696 or contact the customer care team immediately.
