Beware of Fraudulent Texts & Calls
If you have a cellphone, you have probably received a text message or phone call from a number you don’t recognize. In today’s digital age, cybercriminals are constantly devising new ways to deceive individuals and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. One common tactic they use is creating fraudulent texts and calls, often referred to as “smishing” (text phishing) and “vishing” (voice phishing). Scammers are not targeting you directly; their method is to send thousands of fake messages out to as many numbers as possible to see who will respond.
Smishing and Vishing
Smishing involves sending fraudulent text messages that appear to come from reputable sources, such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies. These messages typically contain urgent requests or alarming information designed to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or providing personal information.
Vishing involves fraudulent phone calls where scammers impersonate legitimate organizations to gather sensitive information from victims. They may use techniques like caller ID spoofing to make the call appear genuine.
How to Recognize Fraudulent Texts and Calls
•Unexpected Contact: Be cautious of unexpected texts or calls from unknown numbers or sources you do not regularly communicate with.
•Urgent or Alarming Messages: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming your account has been compromised or that you owe money. Legitimate organizations typically do not use these tactics.
•Requests for Personal Information: Be wary of any message or call requesting personal information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card details.
• Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited text messages. These links may lead to malicious websites designed to steal your information.
Protect Yourself from The Scammers
• Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious text or call, contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or website to verify its authenticity.
• Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information such as Account Numbers, online banking information or Social Security numbers to unsolicited texts or calls.
• Do not respond back to suspicious text messages: Scammers are looking to see if they have a real phone number.
• Use Call Blocking Features: Utilize call blocking features on your phone to reduce the number of unwanted calls.
The information contained in this article should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice, and may not be reflective of terms and features currently offered by Enterprise Bank. Please contact us for details on current product offerings and rates.
If you think you are the victim of fraud related to your account with Enterprise Bank, please contact the Bank’s Call Center at 978-459-9000 or toll-free at 877-671-2265. For additional information on how to protect your accounts, visit https://www.enterprisebanking.com/security.