While we are always working hard to keep your information safe and secure, you can protect yourself by learning how to spot, report, and prevent scams. 

Common Scams

Check Fraud

Paper checks contain personal information that is vital for maintaining your financial security. Fraudsters can steal this information in numerous ways, and once they do, they can use it to illegally to obtain your money.

• Be careful how you dispose of checks to help protect the vital information they contain. The recommended time to keep a deposited check is approximately ten days before disposing of the check properly.
• Make sure your checkbook and check stock are secure and for your eyes only.
• If you are sending or receiving a check, monitor your accounts frequently. If the amount is altered, or fails to be drawn/deposited, contact Kitsap Bank immediately.

Debit and Credit Card Fraud

Thieves can steal your credit or debit card information in many ways, and once they do, they can make unauthorized purchases under your identity.

• Check your account daily; if you notice a transaction that you did not make, call your local branch to report the charges.
• Download the  SecurLOCK Equip app to help control how and when your cards are used.
• Set up alerts in Online Banking, and use the Mobile Banking app to monitor your transactions.
• Never keep your pin number with your card.
• Keep track of your cards; if they are missing report them immediately.

Phishing

Often in the form of a fake email or voice message, this scam is sent to you from sources that seem legitimate. They rely on their deceptively convincing messages to trick you into revealing sensitive information, such as social security, account, and routing numbers.

• Be on the lookout for messages that are “time sensitive” or “urgent!” Take your time and read the message carefully before taking action. Do not respond to unsolicited emails that request your sensitive, personal information.
• Where is the message coming from? Be skeptical of the source; research it before you click it.
• Keep your browsers up-to-date and consider downloading security patches to protect against software vulnerabilities.

ACH Fraud

Unfortunately, fraudsters only need your account number and routing number to complete unauthorized money transfers between accounts. This information may seem easy to safeguard, but there are more ways to obtain it than you might think.

• Check your accounts frequently. Turn on account alerts so that you can monitor your transaction history. The sooner you spot a fraudulent transaction, the more likely it can be resolved!
• Make sure any digital devices you have ACH set up on are regularly updated and patched for security vulnerabilities.
• Never share information such as social security, account, and routing numbers unprompted over the phone or via email. Keep your information guarded and private!

To learn more information about these scams and others, as well as how to protect yourself against them, visit the FDIC Webpage.

What To Do If You Are A Victim Of A Scam

If you have been a victim of identity theft, fraud, or a scam, please contact Kitsap Bank immediately. It is imperative that you reach out at the first sign of fraud, as it improves the likelihood that your lost funds may be able to be recovered.   

• Contact your local branch.
• Contact the Federal Trade Commission to file a complaint; they will send your file to the correct authorities.
• Contact Equifax, Experian, or Trans-Union to utlize the fraud resources available to you.