Different banks and justice department published warnings that scammers in this hard period of time might try to use COVID-19 as a mean of tricking consumers into sharing their personal information, so they could use it for Illegal things.
The spread of COVID-19 puts the financial problems of families and businesses become more strain, the spreading of online selling become easy for many, but it brings more scam threats with. Most people may receive a payment during these thought-provoking times, or even they may receive a paper check in the emails with fake info about something to pay which it might not be true.
To help you stay safe from scammers, the following are some info about digital banking and how to stay safe from scammers:
Avoid using unsafe payment sites and apps
The first thing you have to do is safely using the mobile app and website that your bank provides for its clients. It’s better to handle all your banking tasks like placing checks, paying bills, sending money to someone, and activing/disactiving your credit/debit card.
And if you have other bank accounts, use their websites and apps to handle your tasks. Their digital and mobile capabilities are highly safe than using another unsafe app/website.
But if you don’t have a bank account, you can use other safe online platforms like PayPal for reasonable options that would help you safely manage your money. What is important is making a deep research before choosing the safest digital platform for you.
Avoid spam messages you receive
Keep in mind that when financial institutions and banks want to reach out ofor you, they won’t ask for personal information like your name, password, credit/debit cart number, PIN or any other information you use in your account.
In this case, Experts suggest that it’s a safe way to check any message or email you may receive, particularly when it mentions COVID-19 or coronavirus. Avoid any email that push its recipients for urgently doing an action or clicking on fishy links, specifically when the message or email asks for personal info.
The best way is accessing your bank via the mobile app or website to check for news and updates. And never click on links you receive on your email or on social media.
Immediately report any suspicious activity you may face
The governments and institutions don’t send messages and emails asking for money or your personal information such as bank account information, PINS or credit card numbers. If you get anyone who asks you to pay through a financial agency Western Union, Money Gram, or using a gift card, is a scammer. You must report any suspicious activity because the government and institutions do never tell you to pay that way.
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