Protecting the security of your money and identity is our top priority at TransPecos Banks. Read on to discover mobile banking best practices, ATM safety tips and guidance on avoiding identity theft and fraud, ensuring your financial well-being is safeguarded.
Ensure you never leave your phone unattended in public spaces and equip it with mobile phone security software, such as antivirus and malware protection, along with regular patch updates.
Download the TransPecos app and all other mobile applications exclusively from trusted sources. Keep your device’s operating system and applications updated.
Store deposited checks securely for at least thirty days after transmission before safely destroying them. Ensure your home Wi-Fi is secured with WPA2 Wireless Security Technology, and avoid using public Wi-Fi hotspots for online banking, as they are often unencrypted and vulnerable to hackers.
Utilize tools that allow for the remote wiping of your device if lost or stolen, avoid auto-login features for mobile applications, and promptly notify TransPecos Banks if your mobile device is compromised.
Secure your mobile device with robust authentication methods like a PIN, password, pattern, fingerprint, or other available options, creating strong, memorable passwords by abbreviating phrases or sentences that include numbers.
Change your password frequently, log out after accessing online accounts or social networks, and enable an automatic screen-lock feature to secure your device when not in use.
Avoid those positioned at the corner of buildings where blind spots can occur. Opt for ATMs near the center of buildings to minimize the element of surprise by assailants and improve your reaction time.
Look for ATMs with high visibility and natural surveillance from the surrounding area, as this deters potential criminals and increases witness potential.
Avoid ATMs obscured by barriers such as shrubbery, signs, and partitions, which can provide hiding spots for attackers. Prioritize ATMs in well-lit locations, preferably monitored by security officers, and equipped with wide-angle transaction cameras for added safety.
Research the ATM’s location for prior criminal activity and choose sites with minimal perimeter parking and limited access points to reduce risk.
For drive-up ATMs, keep your vehicle running with all windows up and doors locked, staying vigilant of your surroundings.
If exiting your vehicle to use an ATM, lock all doors and keep your keys ready for a quick departure after your transaction.
Stay alert for suspicious activity, especially involving individuals loitering in the area or poorly lit ATMs.
If possible, bring a companion for added security during nighttime transactions and choose ATMs without concealing foliage.
Maintain a respectful distance from others at the ATM and politely ask anyone encroaching on your personal space to step back. Prepare your card and PIN in advance to minimize time spent at the ATM. Protect your PIN by memorizing it and ensuring it’s not easily guessed based on personal information.
Shield the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent “shoulder surfing” by potential thieves equipped with high-powered visual equipment. Decline assistance from strangers and, once your transaction is complete, promptly secure your card, receipt, and any withdrawn cash before leaving the area.
Remain vigilant as you depart, and if you feel followed, seek a populated area or police assistance. Never share your PIN or ATM card with others, and immediately report any lost, misplaced, or stolen cards to limit your liability for unauthorized transactions.
If you’re facing the challenge of someone using your personal or financial information to make purchases, get benefits, file taxes, or commit fraud, you’re dealing with identity theft. IdentityTheft.gov If you’re facing the challenge of someone using your personal or financial information to make purchases, get benefits, file taxes, or commit fraud, you’re dealing with identity theft. IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and get a personal recovery plan.
Immediately call the company at which the fraud was committed, request the closure or freezing of the accounts to prevent new charges, and change your account logins, passwords, and PINs.
Updated September 2018 by the Federal Trade Commission
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