SECURITY AND FRAUD PREVENTION

We take cyber security seriously.
We actively provide our clients and team
members with knowledge and tools to
minimize the likelihood and impact of a
cyberattack on your financial assets.

Our online banking systems bring together a combination of state of the art industry proven security technologies to your data. We closely monitor and enhance security to ensure the integrity of our online banking system. Our team protects the confidentiality of your account and personal data and complies with all applicable banking regulations related to the safeguarding of your data.

Cybersecurity Awareness

Online fraud and scams are increasing at alarming rates. Stay informed on the latest scams and tricks and stay proactive to keep you and your bank account safe.

Do not leave your wallet or purse unattended in your car.
Do not leave outgoing mail in your mailbox with the flag up. This invites thieves to steal checks and other payment data from your mailbox.
Do not write down any of your PIN or logins IDs in an unsecure location.
Set a password on your online banking account that only you know, and do not use the same password for any other accounts.
Use caution with public unsecured Wi-Fi. Criminals may be waiting to access your device.
Notify your bank as soon as you believe your identity may have been compromised.

Protecting your personal information is a shared responsibility. Here are some proactive tips for keeping your personal information safe:

When sending sensitive information via the Internet, make sure “https:” appears in the address bar. This means the information you are transmitting is secure and encrypted.
Ensure the wireless network you use is password protected. Choose a strong password and update it frequently for your work and home wireless networks. Likewise, always use a passcode on your mobile phone or tablet to stop an unauthorized user from accessing your device.
Avoid entering sensitive information into your phone when others might be able to see what you are entering.
Set the privacy settings on frequented social network sites. Cybercriminals often learn about people and their families and friends via social media in an attempt to spoof or phish you and your network.
Remain cautious of someone who is not who they say they are or if the name and area code do not match what appears on caller ID.
Never respond to text messages, emails, or phone calls from companies alleging to be your bank, government officials, or business representatives that request your banking ID, account numbers, user name or password.
Do not click on links sent to you from unknown sources via text messages, as they are likely malware.
Beware of ‘get rich quick’ schemes; never voluntarily give out your bank account information or security credentials.

Here are some protective tips for keeping your personal data safe on your mobile phone:

Always lock your phone when not in use.
Set up Fingerprint or Facial Recognition when available.
Do not download apps from third-party sites.
Always back up your smartphone’s data. Your Service Provider may already offer a plan.
Keep your phone’s Operating System (OS) updated.
If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your Service Provider immediately.

Protect Yourself Against Email Fraud

Internet “phishing” is one of the fastest-growing fraud scams. Phishing typically involves a phony email message that uses legitimate materials, such as a company’s website graphics and logos, in an attempt to entice email recipients to provide personal financial details, such as credit card and Social Security numbers.

Fortis Bank will NEVER request personal financial information via text message email. To reach our website, always type in our website address, https://www.fortisbankus.com

Stop, Look, and Call

The Department of Justice advises e-mail users to “stop, look and call” if they receive a suspicious email.

Stop – Do not immediately respond to a suspicious email.
Look – Read the text of the email several times and question why the information requested would be needed.
Call – Telephone the organization identified, using a number you know to be legitimate.

If you receive a suspicious email that appears to be from Fortis Bank, please report it immediately by forwarding the email to Fortis. Never respond to an unsolicited e-mail that is requesting financial information.

If You Have Been “Phished”

If you believe you have provided your personal financial information through a phishing scam, follow the below steps immediately.

Contact your financial institution through your known contacts.
Contact the three major credit bureaus and request that a fraud alert be placed on your credit report.
- Equifax | 1-800-525-6285
- Experian | 1-888-397-3742
- TransUnion | 1-800-680-7289
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission | 1-877-382-4357.
Contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) which is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center.