Don't click . . . Call!

What does it mean if I receive a link in a text message, email, or instant message from someone that I may or may not know?

• Phishing is a type of cyberattack that uses fraudulent emails, text messages, phone calls, or website to trick people into sharing sensitive data, downloading malware, or otherwise exposing themselves to cybercrime.
• Some examples include:  toll bill scams; package tracking scams; law enforcement scams; prize winning scams; verify your purchase scams; confirm your identity scams; etc.

What if I get a text message from Austin Bank?

• Call the bank if you receive any messages involving links that appear to be legitimate.  You can reach us at 1.800.644.9275.
• We will never initiate contact with you and then ask for sensitive or personal information.

When will the bank send me a text?

• We have a secondary authentication process that may be used to send you temporary passcodes.
• If fraud is suspected on your account or debit card, we may ask you to verify the transaction or call us, however, we will NOT ask for your password or credentials.

How can I prevent being a victim of a scam?

• Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails.  Links, if clicked, could download malware onto your computer, smartphone, or tablet allowing cyber thieves to steal your identity.  Be cautious, even with emails that l look familiar - it could be fake.  Instead, delete it if it looks unfamiliar and block the sender.
• Verify phone calls.  If you receive a call and aren't sure if the company or the person you are speaking with is legitimate, hang up.  Search for a verified phone number on the company website.  If someone calls claiming to be from your bank and you feel uncomfortable, hang up and call the number on the back of your debit card before providing any personal or financial information.
• Protect your computer and cell phone by using security software.  Set the software to update automatically so it will deal with any new security threats.
• Protect your accounts by using multi-factor authentication.  Some accounts offer extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in.  Multi-factor authentication makes it harder for scammers to log in to your accounts if they do get your username and password.

What do I do if I have clicked an unknown link?

• Do not enter any personal information, usernames, or passwords.
• Have your device scanned for malware or a virus.  You can do this using an authorized app or by contacting your local computer technician.
• Report phishing attempts to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.
• Block or restrict calls on yur cell phone.
  • Android 
    • Click on the text message to open
    • Click on the three dots (right upper corner) to open the info menu
    • Select "Block and Report Spam"
    • Select YES when asked if you want to block that number
  • iPhone
    • Open the text message
    • At the top of the screen will be the sender's phone number.  Click on the phone number.
    • On the next screen, select the icon that says "info".
    • Then select "Block Caller".

If you have disclosed sensitive information in a phishing attack, you should also contact the three major credit bureaus to discuss whether you need to place a fraud alert on your file.  This will help prevent thieves from opening new accounts in your name.  Those bureaus may be reached at:

• Equifax - 1.800.525.6285
• Experian - 1.888.397.3742
• TransUnion - 1.800.680.7289