Pig-butchering scams are becoming more commonplace. A University of Texas study estimates that up to $75 billion has been stolen from victims worldwide via pig butchering since 2020. Here’s how the scam typically works: The scam has become so prevalent that in 2023 the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued an alert with 15 behavioral, financial,… Read more »
Tag: Security Tips
Powell Valley National Bank promotes personal security year round, but we recognize that travelers are extra susceptible to cybersecurity breaches. Since summer is a widely-traveled season, we’ll compile all of our security tips here in one convenient place to help you have a safe and secure summer!
Stay Safe This Holiday Season: 2024 Scam Prevention Tips from PVB
The holiday season brings joy, connection, and giving, but it also opens the door to an unfortunate reality: scammers often target shoppers, travelers, and even charitable donors. At Powell Valley National Bank, we prioritize your financial security and want to equip you with the tools you need to stay protected. Here are key tips to… Read more »
Can You Spot a Phishing Scam?
Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts and calls from scammers pretending to be their bank. And in this time of expanded use of online and mobile banking, the problem is only growing worse. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission’s report on fraud estimates that American consumers lost a staggering $8.8… Read more »
Donate Wisely: Avoid Charity Scams on Giving Tuesday 2022
When supporting a cause you care about, you want to make sure your donation goes as far as possible. Before giving, do some research to ensure your gifts go where they’ll do the most good. 1. Research Online If you aren’t already familiar with a good charity to support, start with some Google searches. Simply… Read more »
Cyber Monday – 10 Tips To Avoid Scams
Cyber Monday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and while people are busy online shopping for gifts, fraudsters are seizing the opportunity to scam them out of their money. So, take these precautions as you shop this year to help protect your money and information. Top 10 Fraud Alert Tips… Read more »
SMBs: Mitigating the Top 3 Cybersecurity Threats
Without technology, businesses and consumers would not have been able to stay connected amidst the global pandemic, Covid-19. At the same time, heavier reliance on interconnected systems opens businesses and consumers up to increased cyber security risks. On top of that, looming warnings of Russian cyberthreats mean that small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) need to… Read more »
Help Veterans Avoid Scams – A Message From The FTC
On Veterans Day, we humbly and gratefully celebrate the service and sacrifice of over 18 million veterans. Unfortunately, scammers keep up with major holidays and headlines for very different reasons, adjusting their schemes to take advantage of whatever is currently capturing the public’s attention. According to the Federal Trade Commission, veterans, service members and their… Read more »
Recognize and Avoid Business Email Compromise Cyber Threats
Business email compromise (BEC) attacks, also known as email account compromise (EAC) attacks, are on the rise globally. According to the FBI, BEC is one of the most financially damaging online crimes. However, with the proper preventative measures and best practices in place, businesses and individuals can avoid falling victim to business email compromise attacks.… Read more »
Have You Updated Your Smartphone Software? How to Check On iPhone and Android
Is your smartphone running on the latest operating system? It’s important to keep your operating system current because these updates often include critical security patches that are designed to protect your data and devices. Here’s how to find out if you have a software update available on your phone. iPhone On your iPhone, open the… Read more »
Pandemic Fraud Scams Advisory
A recent advisory from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) details pandemic-related impostor schemes and money mule scams targeting American consumers. Summarized by PCBB, below are some red flags to be aware of: Contact from an alleged government representative to verify, process, or expedite an individual’s economic impact payment. Receipt of what seems to be a… Read more »