At nbkc, the cybersecurity and digital privacy of our customers is very important. In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, below we’ve outlined some helpful tips on technology use relating to banking. Additionally, these tips can be applied to your daily routine in staying aware of cybercriminal’s tactics and being safe online.

Are you familiar with phishing?

Phishing is a type of online scam where criminals make fraudulent emails, phone calls and texts messages appear to come from a legitimate source. Every year, people lose hundreds, even thousands of dollars to these scams.

Do you know how to identify a FAKE email/text?

Feeling. Does the message trigger an emotional reaction such as curiosity or fear, or does it try to pressure you? Things to watch out for include high-pressure language, scare tactics or a sense of urgency. Customer service is very important to us, and you would never receive a message from us pressing you to do anything.

Action. Does it ask you to click on a link, open an attachment or provide personal information? Always examine these communications closely. Never open external attachments or links from unknown sources. nbkc would never request sensitive account information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, and/or PIN numbers via email or text message.

Know. Do you know the sender? Cybercriminals sometimes spoof a sender’s email address to make it look like it came from someone you know. Top red flags to watch out for are misspelled words, inconsistencies in email addresses, links & domain names. Additionally, if you’ve received a text message from a number you don’t recognize, don’t respond. If your spidey sense is tingling that’s a good sign. Don’t ignore it. Give the sender a call instead of replying to their text.

Expect. Were you expecting the email? Verify suspicious emails immediately. Does the email originate from an organization corresponded with often? If so, check the sender’s address against previous emails from the same organization. Similarly with text messages, if it came unexpected, even from a company you recognize or may do business with, don’t respond right away. Call the company who sent the message by finding their contact info on their web site.

If you believe you have received a fake communication but are not sure, you can always call us! We’re happy to chat and address any concerns you have. Additionally, check out our Privacy and Security page, where you can find more resources on how to avoid fraud and what measures to take if you feel you have become a victim of identity theft.