Protect Yourself from Scams: A Guide from Happy State Bank, a Division of Centennial Bank

In today’s digital age, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. At Happy State Bank, a division of Centennial Bank, your security is our top priority. We’ve compiled a list of common scams to be mindful of, along with important dos and don’ts to help you protect yourself.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Phishing Emails and Texts: Scammers send fraudulent messages pretending to be from reputable companies to steal your personal information.

Vishing (Voice Phishing): Fraudsters call you, posing as bank officials or other trusted entities, to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

Smishing (SMS Phishing): Similar to phishing emails, but through text messages, urging you to click on malicious links.

Impersonation Scams: Criminals pose as someone you know or a trusted authority to manipulate you into transferring money or sharing personal details.

Investment Scams: Promises of high returns with little risk to entice you into investing money in bogus schemes.

Dos and Don’ts to Protect Yourself

Do:
Verify the Source: Always double-check the sender’s email address or phone number. Contact the company directly using a trusted number if you’re unsure. You could visit one of our branches or contact our Customer Care Center if you are still unsure.

Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords and change them regularly. Use different passwords for different accounts.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible.

Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your bank statements and online accounts for any unauthorized transactions. You can receive suspicious activity alerts by contacting our Customer Care Center and updating your cell phone information.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scam tactics and share this knowledge with friends and family.

Don’t:
Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unexpected sources.

Don’t Share Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information over the phone, email, or text message unless you are certain of the recipient’s identity.

Don’t Trust Unsolicited Requests: Be wary of unsolicited requests for money or personal details, even if they appear to come from someone you know.

Don’t Rush Decisions: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. Take your time to verify the legitimacy of the request.

Don’t Ignore Security Updates: Regularly update your computer, smartphone, and apps to protect against the latest threats.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

Report It: If you receive a suspicious email, text, or call, report it to Happy State Bank immediately. We can help determine if it’s legitimate.

Contact Your Bank: If you think you may have revealed sensitive information or fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank immediately to secure your accounts.

Notify Authorities: Report the scam to your local law enforcement and relevant regulatory bodies. This helps in tracking and stopping scammers. You may also report suspected or known scams to the FBI online at ic3.gov.

Stay Vigilant and Stay Safe

Scams are constantly evolving, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your finances. At Happy State Bank, we’re committed to your security. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Care Center at (800) 447-2265 during the hours of 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. CT Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. CT on Saturdays.