Things Pinnacle Bank Will Never Ask

Fraudsters use email or text messages to try to trick you into giving your private information to them; this is called phishing. These emails or text messages look like they’re from a company you may know or trust, asking you to give them information, such as your Social Security number, Tax Identification number or account information. But don’t be fooled – it’s a trick with real consequences.

Pinnacle Bank is continuously working to protect you from fraudsters, especially as we enter the holiday season (a time when fraud usually increases). We will NEVER call or email to ask for:

• Your account number or full Social Security number
• Your full debit or credit card number and CVV number
• Your PIN for your debit or credit card
• Your online banking password or security questions

Additionally, we’ll never address you as “user” or “yourname@gmail.com” in an official email from Pinnacle Bank, nor will we ask you to complete a “test” transaction using your account. And, we won’t ask you to text personal or banking information.

Tips for Your Employees

Your employees play a vital role in helping protect your business from phishing attempts. Here are a few tips to pass along:

• Never open attachments in an email where you’re unsure of the sender. If you know the sender, contact the company using a phone number or website you know to verify that the email or text message is real.
• Be cautious of the apps you install on your work mobile device or desktop. Review the apps to ensure the logo is accurate and the user experience is what you’d expect. NOTE: It’s best if you ask employees to only download approved apps on their work mobile device or desktop.
• Avoid clicking through on promoted social media content. Encourage employees to use social media only for work-related needs to help thwart phishing attempts.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, don’t “bite.” Scammers who use phishing tactics are counting on people to throw caution to the wind – don’t be fooled.

What Should You Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed?

If you received a phishing email or text message, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Your quick action will help eliminate future phishing incidents with others. Here’s what you should do:

1. If you received a phishing email, forward it to the FTC’s Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. If you received a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726).
2. Report the phishing attack to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.

If you have any questions or concerns about an email or text from Pinnacle Bank, please give us a call at 877-759-7939. We’re happy to make sure you’re protected as your safety and peace of mind is our priority.

For more information on identity theft and keeping your online banking experience safe and secure, visit https://www.pinnaclebank.com/why-pinnacle/online-banking-security/.