Learn how to protect yourself from cyber fraud, recognize common phishing scams, and know exactly what to do if your accounts have been compromised. Quad City Bank & Trust reminds you that we will never ask you to verify your personal password, PIN, or account numbers over the internet, via email, text, or unsolicited phone calls. Always err on the side of caution when opening unsolicited messages. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from us, contact our verification line at 563.388.4783 before responding.
What are the best tips to prevent banking fraud?
Financial institutions will never ask for your account number or password through unsolicited contact. Even if a message looks real, don't provide personal details.
Use strong, unique passwords with a mix of letter, numbers, and symbols. Avoid personal details like birthdays or names and never share your password with anyone.
Be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, or texts, especially those asking for personal information or creating urgency. If you didn't initiate the contact, don't respond.
Regularly update your phone, computer, and apps. Updates fix security vulnerabilities and help protect your information from fraud.
Scams are constantly changing, so staying informed is key. Knowing common fraud tactics helps you spot suspicious activity early.
Only shop on reputable websites you trust. Look for security indicators and reviews before entering payment information.
Check your bank and credit card statements regularly. Reviewing activity often helps you catch unauthorized transactions quickly.
If something doesn't seem right, contact your financial institution directly using a trusted phone number or website. Always initiate the contact yourself.
Avoid accessing your financial accounts on public Wi-Fi, such as coffee shops or airports. Use secure, private networks or your mobile data to help keep your information protected.
What steps should I take if I think I've been a victim of fraud?
If you suspect your identity or bank accounts have been compromised, act immediately:
- Notify the Bank: Call Quad City Bank & Trust instantly at 563.388.QCBT to freeze your cards and protect your funds.
- Alert the Credit Bureaus: Place a free fraud alert on your credit reports by contacting the major credit bureaus:
- TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289 | www.transunion.com | Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92834-6790
- Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 | www.equifax.com | P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
- Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742) | www.experian.com | P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
- Close Damaged Accounts: Shut down any banking lines or credit cards that you know or believe have been tampered with.
- File an FTC Complaint: Contact the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Hotline toll-free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338) or submit a report online at the official FTC Identity Theft Website.
- File a Police Report: Contact your local police department or the law enforcement agency where the identity theft occurred to create an official record.