At Golden Valley Bank, your security is our top priority. As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods fraudsters use to try and gain access to personal information and financial accounts. That’s why we believe in staying a step ahead—by educating our customers and offering tools that help keep you, your business, and your finances safe.
Common Types of Fraud to Watch Out For
Fraudsters may be clever, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Some of the most common types of fraud we see include:
- Phishing Scams: Emails, texts, or phone calls that appear to come from a trusted source (like your bank) asking you to “verify” your account information or click on a suspicious link.
- Check Fraud: Altered, forged, or counterfeit checks that attempt to withdraw funds from your account.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC): Where attackers use a hacked email to pose as an executive, vendor, or customer to trick you or your employees into transferring money or sensitive information to fraudulent accounts.
- Zelle or P2P Payment Fraud: Scammers tricking users into sending money by pretending to be a legitimate business or friend in need.
- Card Skimming & Cloning: Devices attached to ATMs or gas station pumps that steal card information when you swipe.
Tips to Help You Stay Protected
We believe knowledge is power. Here are a few simple but effective steps to protect yourself and your business:
Slow Down and Verify
If something feels off, trust your gut. Always verify requests for personal information or payments through a separate, trusted method—especially if you weren’t expecting the request.
Keep Software and Devices Up to Date
Make sure your phone, computer, and apps have the latest updates. They often include critical security patches that help guard against new threats.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Use a different password for each account and update them regularly. Consider using a password manager to keep things secure and organized.
Set Up Account Alerts
With Golden Valley Bank’s digital banking tools, you can set alerts for account activity, helping you monitor transactions in real time.
Educate Your Team
If you own a business, your employees are your first line of defense. Train them to recognize suspicious emails, invoices, or requests.
Call Us, We’re Here to Help
If you ever receive a suspicious communication or believe you may have been a victim of fraud, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll walk you through the next steps and help secure your accounts.
Fraud Can Happen to Anyone, But It Doesn’t Have To
Being cautious doesn’t mean being paranoid, it means being prepared. At Golden Valley Bank, we’re committed to helping you build financial confidence not just through your balance sheet, but through trust, transparency, and proactive support. Learn more in our Security Center