In today’s digital age, safeguarding your personal and financial information is more critical than ever. At Citizens Bank And Trust, we understand the increasing sophistication of online scams and are dedicated to helping you stay protected. It’s crucial to recognize that while we are here to assist you with your banking needs, there are certain pieces of information we will never request from you through phone calls or emails. Criminals often impersonate financial institutions to deceive individuals, but knowing what your bank will not ask is a powerful tool in preventing fraud.
To help you stay vigilant, here are ten things Citizens Bank and Trust will never ask you to provide through unsolicited contact:
- Your Account Number: We already have your account details on file. There is no legitimate reason for us to request your full account number to “verify” your identity.
- Your Full Debit or Credit Card Number: Similar to your account number, we possess this information. Be extremely wary of any request for your complete card number.
- Your CVV Number: This security code on the back of your card is highly sensitive and should never be shared unless you are making a purchase on a secure website. Citizens Bank and Trust will never need this for verification purposes over the phone or email.
- Your PIN Number: Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is for your use only at ATMs and for card transactions. We will never ask for this under any circumstance.
- Your Full Social Security Number (SSN): While we may use your SSN for identification purposes in secure settings, we will never request your full SSN in an unsolicited phone call or email.
Furthermore, Citizens Bank and Trust will never:
- Close Your Account for Refusal to Give Personal Information: Your security is paramount. We will respect your caution and will not threaten to close your account if you refuse to disclose sensitive details over an unverified channel.
- Ask You to Complete a “Test” Transaction: Fraudsters often use this tactic to trick you into sending money. Legitimate banks do not conduct “test” transactions with customers.
- Address You as “User” or “[email protected]”: We value your relationship with us and will always address you by name in our communications. Generic greetings are a red flag.
- Ask for Your Online Banking Password or Security Questions: Your online banking credentials are for your exclusive use. We will never need to know your password or security questions.
- Ask You to Text Personal or Banking Information: Secure communication channels are essential for your protection. Text messaging is not a secure way to transmit sensitive data.
Ten things your bank will NEVER do
If you ever feel uncertain about a communication you’ve received claiming to be from Citizens Bank and Trust, trust your instincts. If something feels wrong or too good to be true, it likely is. Do not hesitate to contact our trusted advisors directly. We are dedicated to ensuring your safety and peace of mind and are always ready to assist you with any concerns or questions you may have. Your security is our top priority at Citizens Bank and Trust, serving the Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma communities since 1886.
For more detailed information about our fraud prevention measures, please visit our Fraud Center at https://cbankandtrust.com/fraud-alert.
