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Fraud attempts continue to evolve, and while financial institutions work diligently to safeguard your information, awareness remains one of the most effective tools for prevention.

At Citizens Bank & Trust, protecting our customers is a top priority. Understanding how fraudsters operate, and knowing what to watch for, can help you stay one step ahead.

How Fraud Attempts Often Happen

Many fraud attempts begin with a sense of urgency. You may receive a phone call, text, or email from someone claiming to be your bank or another trusted organization. They may ask you to “verify” account activity, including ACH transactions, or request sensitive information.

These requests can sound legitimate, but they are designed to gain access to your personal or financial information.

Important reminder:
Citizens Bank & Trust will never contact you to ask for:

• Passwords or PINs
• One-time verification codes
• Full account numbers
• Sensitive information to "verify" ACH activity

Common Red Flags to Watch For

Being able to recognize warning signs is key to preventing fraud.
Be cautious if you notice:

1. Unexpected Contact
A call, text, or email you didn’t initiate, especially about account activity.

2. Urgent or Pressuring Language
Fraudsters often create panic, saying things like:

• "Your account is at risk"
• "This must be handled immediately"

3. Requests for Sensitive Information
No legitimate institution will ask for passwords, full account details, or verification codes.

4. Requests to Verify ACH or Transactions
Scammers may reference ACH transactions or transfers to appear credible.

5. Instructions to Stay on the Line
They may discourage you from hanging up or contacting your bank directly.

Tips to Help Protect Yourself

A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your information secure:

Pause Before You Respond
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Fraudsters rely on quick reactions.

Verify Using Trusted Contact Information
Always contact your bank directly using a phone number from your official bank statement or website—not one provided by the caller.

Never Share Sensitive Information
Keep passwords, PINs, and verification codes private at all times.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Review your transactions frequently and report anything suspicious immediately.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Avoid reusing passwords across accounts and consider using a password manager.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

If you believe you may have shared information or been targeted by fraud, taking quick action can help minimize potential damage:

1. Contact Your Bank Immediately
Reach out to Citizens Bank & Trust using a trusted phone number so we can help secure your accounts.

2. Change Your Passwords
Update passwords for your banking and any related accounts right away.

3. Monitor Your Accounts Closely
Watch for unauthorized transactions and report them immediately.

4. Report the Incident
You can file a report with trusted agencies:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
• IdentityTheft.gov (step-by-step recovery guidance): https://www.identitytheft.gov
• IdentityTheft.gov (step-by-step recovery guidance): https://www.identitytheft.gov
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): https://www.ic3.gov

Contact one of the major credit bureaus to add protection to your credit file:

• Equifax: https://www.equifax.com
• Experian: https://www.experian.com
• TransUnion: https://www.transunion.com

We’re Here to Help

Fraud can be unsettling, but you’re not alone. Our team is here to help you navigate any concerns and take the right steps to protect your financial well-being. 

When in doubt, always pause and contact us directly using a trusted number.

Staying informed is one of the best ways to stay protected.