Your security matters. Explore our resources to protect your accounts, prevent fraud, and keep your information safe online.
Cybersecurity & Online Safety Tips from Citizens Bank and Trust
Cybersecurity is all about protecting your financial life. Every time you log in, pay a bill, or shop online, you face choices that can either protect your information or leave it at risk. At Citizens Bank & Trust, we’re committed to helping you make smart decisions, secure your accounts, and recognize potential threats.
Your security and peace of mind are our top priorities. That’s why we provide practical tips, policies, and resources to help safeguard your accounts against fraud, identity theft, and scams. Together, we can make banking online safe and convenient.
Basic Cybersecurity Banking Tips
Good security starts with small, consistent habits:
These small steps create powerful defenses against cybercriminals.
Recognizing Common Scams
Criminals are constantly creating new ways to trick people, but the warning signs remain the same. Here are some of today’s most common scams and how to handle them.
- What it looks like: Messages urging you to “confirm,” “unlock,” or “track a package,” often with a link or attachment.
- Red flags: Misspellings, unusual senders, QR codes, mismatched URLs, or pressure to act quickly.
- What to do: Don’t click anything. Delete or report the message immediately.
- What it looks like: Pop-ups or phone calls claiming “your computer is infected, call now.”
- Red flags: Unsolicited help, requests for remote access, or payments for “support.”
- What to do: Close the window. Do not call or allow anyone to access your device remotely.
- What it looks like: Emotional appeals after a storm, fire, or tragedy urging you to “donate now.”
- Red flags: New or unfamiliar “charities,” urgent requests for cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto.
- What to do: Donate only through established organizations. Verify charities through trusted sources like CharityNavigator.org, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, or Candid.org.
- What it looks like: Fast-moving online relationships that shift toward money requests or “investment help.”
- Red flags: Refuses to meet in person, insists on off-platform chats, or asks for money/gift cards/crypto.
- What to do: Stop contact and talk to someone you trust before making financial decisions.
- What it looks like: Calls or emails claiming to be from the IRS, Social Security, or law enforcement.
- Red flags: Threats of arrest, “urgent” tax issues, or demands for payment via gift cards or crypto.
- What to do: Hang up. Verify directly using contact info from official .gov websites. Legitimate agencies will never demand payment by phone or gift card.
- What it looks like: Messages claiming you owe fees or taxes, or even a “boss” asking for a quick favor, paid via gift cards.
- Red flags: Pressure to buy cards, read codes aloud, or send photos of the cards.
- What to do: Stop immediately. No legitimate business or government agency accepts gift cards as payment. If you have already paid, contact the card issuer right away to report the scam and request a refund if possible.
What To Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, act fast.
Report the issue and get step-by-step recovery advice at the FTC’s What to Do if You Were Scammed page. You can also contact Citizens Bank & Trust immediately to help secure your accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.
Additional Security Resources
Keep learning and stay informed through these trusted organizations:
Secure Banking Starts With You
Have questions about protecting your accounts or need help with fraud prevention? Our team is here to guide you with trusted support and clear answers. From reporting suspicious activity to learning more about cybersecurity best practices, we’ll walk you through every step with care and confidence.
Your safety is our top priority, and we’re always just a call or visit away. Connect with us today to safeguard your financial future.