As fraud and scam activity continues to rise, taking steps to safeguard your personal and business information is more important than ever. Cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, using emails, text messages, phone calls, and even fake websites to impersonate trusted organizations and gain access to sensitive information.
At First Pacific Bank, we are committed to keeping our clients safe. Staying informed can help reduce your risk of fraud.
Be Cautious with Unexpected Messages
Fraudsters often send emails or text messages that appear to come from a trusted source, including your bank. These messages may include urgent requests, suspicious links, or prompts to provide personal information.
Do not click on links or respond to unexpected or suspicious communications claiming to be from the bank. Instead, access your accounts directly through our official website or mobile banking app.
Watch for Impersonation Attempts
Scammers may pose as bank representatives and attempt to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. They may claim there is suspicious activity on your account or that immediate action is required.
Remember:
- First Pacific Bank will never ask for your password or PIN
- We will never request remote access to your device
- One-time verification codes are only sent during secure interactions initiated directly with the bank
If something feels unusual, pause and verify before taking action.
Use Official Contact Channels
Always contact the bank using verified phone numbers or contact information listed on our official website. Avoid using phone numbers or links provided through unsolicited emails, text messages, or online advertisements, as these may lead to fraudulent sites or individuals.
Verify Before You Act
If you receive a request involving:
- Wire transfers
- Account changes
- Sensitive information
- Payment approvals
Take a moment to independently verify the request through a trusted channel. Logging into your account directly or contacting your banker can help prevent costly mistakes.
Strengthen Your Account Security
Simple security measures can go a long way in protecting your accounts and information. We encourage clients to:
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Avoid sharing login credentials or security codes
- Enable multi-factor authentication whenever available
- Turn on account alerts to monitor activity in real time
Common Scams to Watch For
Fraud schemes continue to evolve, but some common warning signs include:
- Phishing emails or text messages designed to steal login credentials or personal information
- Requests demanding immediate action, such as transferring funds or updating account details
- Fake investment or payment opportunities promising guaranteed returns
- Social engineering tactics that pressure you into sharing sensitive information
- Requests to send money or approve transactions for someone you met online
Trust Your Instincts
If something seems suspicious, trust your instincts. Fraudsters often rely on fear, urgency, or secrecy to manipulate victims into acting quickly.
At First Pacific Bank, we will never pressure you to act immediately or ask you to keep information secret. If you believe you may have been impacted by fraud or notice unusual account activity, contact us immediately by calling 888.BNK.AT.FPB or reaching out to your local branch.
