Security Tips

Many of us receive a steady flow of unsolicited calls every day, sales promotions, wrong numbers or some other type of offer. Phone calls remain a tried and true method for scammers to solicit information.

One of the most popular unexpected contact scams includes banking impersonations. Cybercriminals will make contact from a number that appears to be from your financial institution, claiming that they have suspended your account due to unusual activity or need debit or credit card details to confirm purchases. Before taking action, consider whether it makes sense that you’re getting this call or text. Ask yourself questions like:

• Is this how 1st Advantage would typically contact you when unusual activity is detected?
• When was the last time you checked your bank account?

If you don’t stop and think, you may give cybercriminals exactly what they want. Tips to protect against similar scams:

• Never provide account data or personal info in response to a cold call.
• Don’t rely solely on caller ID – hang up and call a legitimate number you have used in the past.
• Be wary of a message or caller insisting that you take immediate action.
• Add a codeword to your account for added security by contacting us at 757-877-2444.