Navigating Fraud: Protect Yourself
How we protect you
Points West Community Bank works hard to protect your personal and business financial information by offering a suite of security tools and expert protocols to keep your information safe.
As digital banking continues to evolve, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals. Protecting your assets is a partnership. Here’s what you can do to help protect yourself:
- Limit the amount of information you share online or on social media.
- Monitor your financial accounts on a regular basis.
- Always use unique, complex passwords or passphrases.
- Enroll in two factor authentication on top of your username and password.
- Use antivirus software on your computer.
What you can do
Protect Your Online Banking
Always access your online banking by typing the official address (e.g., pwcbank.com)
Avoid clicking on suspicious links you may have received in an email
Verify website security by looking for https:// at the beginning of the web address
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security
Use Zelle® Safely
Only send money to people and businesses you know and trust in person
Zelle® is not intended for online marketplaces and social media platforms
Treat Zelle® like a cash transaction because once it’s sent you can’t typically get it back
Confirm your recipient’s contact details by double checking the mobile phone number or email address is correct
Secure your digital life
Think about passphrases as your passwords by including 16 or more characters
Consider using a digital password manager that works across multiple devices
Update your software on your devices by turning on automatic updates
Only use apps you trust. Check the publisher and user reviews to make sure it’s legit
Avoid public Wi-Fi and USB charging stations that can contain malware to steal your data
Recognizing and Avoid Scams
Be cautious about clicking on links sent to you without prior permission
Be skeptical of unexpected emails or messages
Verify the identity of anyone posing as the IRS demanding money
Be wary of high-pressure tactics as scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick decisions
Not sure if it’s a scam?
Scammers are experts at creating urgency and building trust. If a request for money or information feels “off,” don’t act alone. Use our interactive Scam Checker to answer a few questions.
Scam CheckerFAQ
Yes, Points West Community Bank offers 3D Secure, which provides an extra layer of verification for online debit card purchases, helping to ensure that you—and only you—are using your card.
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of identification to access your account (like your password plus a code sent to your mobile phone). This ensures that even if someone steals your password, they still cannot access your money without that second physical device in your hand.
Public Wi-Fi networks (like those at coffee shops or airports) are often unsecured, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. We recommend using a secure home network or your cellular data when accessing online banking.
This is a major red flag of a Romance Scam. A legitimate person or organization will never ask you to send money via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to handle an emergency. We strongly advise you to stop communication and speak with a trusted family member or one of our bankers before sending any funds. Learn more about romance and dating scams.
Check the sender’s address carefully. Official communications will only come from @pwcbank.com. If you receive a suspicious request, do not click any links and report it immediately.
Call us immediately at 1-833-226-7474, change your passwords for your banking and email accounts, and monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions.
Stay one step ahead of fraud
Understanding the latest tactics used by scammers is your best defense. Explore our latest articles to learn how to identify current scams and better protect your business and family.
Read the blogStill have questions?
If you still have questions, or need to report fraud, please contact us via the form below or our customer support team at 833-226-7474.