Skip to main content

Fraud Prevention Guide

from the security experts at United Community Bank

 

Stay Alert. Stay Safe.

With so much of our lives online, we're all potential targets for fraud. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself--and at United, our first priority is keeping your personal information safe. Learn more about fraud in our Online Fraud Glossary and use the resources below to recognize, prevent, and report potential scams.

DETECTING FRAUD

Receiving strange emails, texts, or calls?

Every day, thousands of people fall for fraudulent emails, texts, and calls from scammers pretending to be a bank by spoofing a bank's phone number or name when contacting people. These are commonly referred to as phishing scams and victims can lose hundreds, even thousands of dollars.

Phishing is when you get emails, texts, or calls that seem to be from companies or people you know, but they’re actually from scammers. They want you to click on a link or share personal information (like a password or social security number) so that they can use that information to steal your money and/or identity.

ONLINE SHOPPING

Online Shopping Safety Tips

In the US alone, there are 2.1 million online retailers. It can be overwhelming to decide what to buy, much less to distinguish what retailers you can trust. But shopping online is a great way to avoid the crowds without leaving your home—and you can do it safely. Check out the following steps you can take to protect yourself and your money online.

PASSWORD STRENGTH

Will your password hold up against a hacker?

In our increasingly digital world, passwords have almost become an afterthought. We use passwords for everything from credit card accounts to social media, but when was last time you really considered the strength of the passwords you use?

WIRE FRAUD

How to protect yourself from wire fraud.

Wire fraudsters are masters of impersonation who appear in a range of guises, from your local power company to software tech support. But there are some easy ways to start seeing fraudsters for what they are and help keep them away from your money.

Think you've been scammed?

Report your experience to us immediately.
1-800-UCBANK1 (
1-800-822-2651)
 

Have questions?

Our team members are dedicated to you, and they can provide the support and resources you need.
Schedule an appointment at your local branch or give us a call at 1-800-UCBANK1 (1-800-822-2651).
 

Prevent Fraud with these United Services

card controls icon

Card Controls

Establish spending limits, set alerts, turn your card off and on, and view your recent transactions right from your smartphone.
alert icon

Alerts and Notifications

Receive banking alerts and notifications on the go by email, phone, or text message.
card controls icon

How-To Videos

View our library of resources and tutorials related to the security features and functions of Online and Mobile Banking.

Prevent Fraud with these United Services

Helpful Resources

3 Ways to Boost Your Financial Literacy

Have you ever made a financial decision you regretted? Or wish you’d understood your options better at the time? We’ve all been there, and we can all grow our financial knowledge so that we’re better equipped for the next decision.
Read Article

Employment Scams and How to Avoid Them

Criminals promote fake job opportunities through many of the same job boards that legitimate companies use, such as online job sites, social media platforms, and newspapers. The fake postings claim to offer employment but are instead used to acquire victims’ personal information and financial assets.
Read Article

Banking Online Safely: What You Need to Know

Online banking is a popular and convenient way to manage your finances. While it offers many benefits, like 24/7 access to your accounts and the ability to make transactions from anywhere, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and how to keep your information safe. Here’s what you need to know to stay protected while banking online.
Read Article