Protecting Yourself Online: Tips for Safer Internet Day
Safer Internet Day, celebrated on February 11, highlights the importance of staying vigilant and informed when navigating the online world. The internet offers great convenience, from connecting with loved ones to managing finances, but it’s also home to potential risks. At The Peoples Bank, your safety is our top priority. That’s why we’re diving into the most common online scams—phishing and spoofing—and how you can protect yourself.
Understand Phishing and Spoofing
Phishing and spoofing are two of the most common tactics cybercriminals use to access sensitive information:
- Phishing: This involves criminals disguising themselves as trusted entities to deceive you into sharing personal information. Phishing attempts often come in emails, texts, or phone calls and may direct you to fraudulent websites. These messages often carry a sense of urgency, such as warning of suspicious activity, and ask you to “log in” or verify your account information.
- Spoofing: Spoofing often accompanies phishing attempts. It’s the act of falsifying communication to make it appear as though it’s from a trusted source, such as a bank, retailer or other familiar entity. This can include fake email addresses, phone numbers or even websites.
Recognize and Avoid Scams
Awareness is your first line of defense against scams. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Know Your Bank’s Communication Practices:
- Like most financial institutions, The Peoples Bank will never ask for personal or financial information such as account numbers, login credentials or PINs via unsecured methods like emails or text messages.
- Beware of Urgency:
- Scammers often create a sense of panic to trick you into quick decisions. Be wary of messages claiming urgent issues, especially if they request immediate action.
- Verify Before You Act:
- When in doubt, contact the organization directly using official communication channels. For instance, if you’re unsure about a message from The Peoples Bank, call us at 228-435-5511 to verify.
- Examine Links and Email Addresses:
- Hover over links to check their destination before clicking. Look for subtle changes in email addresses or URLs that may indicate fraud.
- Keep Security Software Updated:
- Regularly update your devices and security software to protect against the latest threats.
Staying Secure with The Peoples Bank
Your safety is our priority at The Peoples Bank. We’re committed to providing a secure online banking experience, backed by robust protections to safeguard your information. If you ever encounter suspicious activity or have concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our team for assistance.
Celebrate Safer Internet Day by protecting yourself and your information online. Together, we can create a safer digital world!