Tips to Protect Yourself

1. Do Your Research – Before purchasing from a company you found on social media, verify its legitimacy. Check the website for contact information, including a valid phone number and physical address. You can also check the company’s ratings or complaints on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website to confirm if it’s a trusted business.
2. Be Wary of Deep Discounts – If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Compare prices with other retailers to ensure the discount is reasonable.
3. Inspect Websites and Social Media – Look closely at the quality of the website and social media profiles. Inconsistencies, grammatical errors, and low engagement can be red flags for a fake company.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods – Avoid paying via wire transfers or gift cards, as these methods offer little protection if you’re scammed. Use credit cards, which provide better fraud protection and the ability to dispute charges.
5. Trust Your Instincts – If something doesn’t feel right about a company or its products, listen to your gut and reconsider the purchase.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

• Contact Us – If you believe your account information has been compromised or you’ve paid a scammer, notify us immediately.
• Report to the FTC – File a report with the Federal Trade Commission and inform your local law enforcement agency.
• Report the Scam on Social Media – If the scam occurred through a social media platform, report the fake company or profile to the platform to help protect others.
• Warn Others – Share your experience online to help others avoid falling victim to the same scam. Mention the fake company’s name and any associated social media accounts.

• Mobile and Online Banking (5 minute module)
• Identity Protection (5 minute module)