Security Alerts
Smishing Alert
Beware of Smishing. Banks across the country are reporting that their customers are receiving unsolicited text messages. It’s an attempt at SMISHING, the latest form of phishing.
In smishing, customers receive a text message via cell phone warning that their bank account has been closed due to suspicious activity. It then tells them they need to call a certain phone number to reactivate the account.
Unsuspecting callers who dial the number provided will be taken to an automated voice mail box that prompts them to key in their credit card or debit card number, expiration date, and PIN to verify their information.
Prevention Recommendations:
- Be wary of any message received from an unknown sender.
- Do not open unsolicited e-mails or text messages.
- Do not click on any links provided in unsolicited e-mails.
- If you have a question concerning your account or credit/debit card, contact your financial institution using a telephone number obtained independently, such as the phone number from your statement, a telephone book, or other independent means.
If you believe you have been a victim of Smishing:
- Report the incident to Virginia Heritage Bank and the credit bureau.
- Order a credit report.
- Don’t display your wireless phone number or e-mail address in public. This includes newsgroups, chat rooms, Web sites, or membership directories.
- If you open an unwanted message, send a stop or opt out message in response.
- Check the privacy policy when submitting your wireless phone number or e-mail address to any Web site. Find out if the policy allows the company to sell your information.
- Contact your wireless or Internet service provider about unwanted messages.
Phishing Alert
We want to inform you of an alert we received regarding a phishing scam happening in our area. Phishing occurs when you receive an email that appears to come from a company or bank you know. Once you open the email, there may be a message that states: “During our regular verification of accounts, we couldn't verify your information. Please click here to update and verify your information.” Once you click on the link, it will take you to a website that will appear the same or similar to the company or bank's real website. Once there, you'll be asked to confirm personal information. We will never request this information from you by email. If you receive an email that appears to be from us asking for this information, please delete the email. Please call your branch directly if you have received any emails that appear to be from us and are asking you for personal information.
