Stay Safe: How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams

Learn the warning signs, protect your information, and know what to do if you become a victim.

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At First National Bank & Trust Company of Miami, your security is our priority. In today’s digital world, fraud can happen to anyone—but with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. This guide will help you understand the most common types of fraud, how to avoid them, and what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.

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Common Types of Fraud to Watch Out For

Understanding how fraudsters operate is the first step to staying protected. These are some of the most common scams we see impacting our community:

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1. Phishing and Email Scams

Scammers send emails pretending to be from trusted sources—like your bank, a government agency, or a shipping company. These emails often contain links that ask you to “verify” personal information.
What to look for: Urgent language, misspelled URLs, or requests for passwords.

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2. Phone Scams (Vishing)

A scammer may call claiming to be from FNB Miami, the IRS, or another trusted entity. They often spoof caller IDs and use fear tactics to pressure you.
Red flag: Asking for your debit card number, Social Security number, or online banking login over the phone.

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3. Check and Mobile Deposit Fraud

Fraudulent checks may look legitimate and are often used in online sales, mystery shopper scams, or fake job offers. You’re asked to deposit the check and send part of the money back—only to later discover the check was fake.

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4. Debit/Credit Card Skimming

Devices installed at ATMs, gas pumps, or point-of-sale terminals steal card information when you swipe.
Tip: Always check for loose card readers and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

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5. Online Marketplace Scams

Whether you're buying or selling, scammers may use fake listings, fake payments, or stolen photos to trick you.
Be cautious: Meet locally in well-lit areas and never pay in gift cards or wire transfers.

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6. Elder Fraud

Seniors are often targeted by scammers posing as grandchildren, romantic interests, or tech support agents.
Warn your loved ones: No legitimate company will ask for payment in gift cards or pressure for immediate action.

How to Protect Yourself

While fraudsters are getting more creative, a few smart habits can go a long way:

• FNB Miami will never call, text, or email you asking for your password or full account number.

• Never share personal or financial information over the phone, email, or social media.

• Use strong passwords and change them regularly. Don’t reuse passwords across sites.

• Set up banking alerts through Online Banking or the FNB Mobile App to track activity in real time.

• Avoid public Wi-Fi for online banking or shopping.

• Shred sensitive paperwork like account statements and pre-approved credit offers.

If You Suspect Fraud – Take Action Immediately

If you believe your FNB Miami account has been compromised:

1. Call us immediately at [Insert FNB Miami fraud hotline or main number]. We can freeze your account or card.

2. Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.

3. Notify local law enforcement and get a police report if needed.

4. Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file:

• Experian: 888-397-3742

• Equifax: 800-525-6285

• TransUnion: 800-680-7289

5. Monitor your accounts closely and consider enrolling in identity theft protection.

How FNB Miami Helps Protect You

We take your safety seriously. Here’s how we work around the clock to guard your finances:

• 24/7 transaction monitoring for suspicious activity

• EMV chip debit cards for secure in-person transactions

• Secure Online and Mobile Banking with multi-factor authentication

• Instant card blocking through our mobile app

• Customer-first fraud resolution support

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