Smart Habits to Protect Yourself From Scams

January 4, 2024

As you look forward to achieving new goals in 2024, German American Bank is here to provide the tools and resources you need to protect your financial well-being. We encourage you to be an active partner in preventing fraud and identity theft. Here are some healthy habits to be scam smart in the new year!

Set up Multi-Factor Authentication

Take time to enable multi-factor authentication for your accounts, especially those where personal or financial data is stored. This type of authentication requires a password and at least one additional verification, usually sent via text or email with a one-time code to login. Only use this code to verify a login that you prompted. Multi-factor authentication is a default setting for German American Online and Mobile banking customers, and requires you to verify the first time you sign in on any new device. As your bank, we will never ask for this code.

Keep Software Updated

Keeping your phone and computer software up to date makes you less vulnerable to a cyber attack. Just as hackers are constantly trying to find weaknesses in software, the teams behind the software are creating patches to fix vulnerabilities. Enable your device to auto-update or set reminders to check for new updates to ensure you have the latest vital security patches.

Heighten Your Awareness

Challenge yourself to pause before performing an action online or using your personal device. Scammers often use a false sense of urgency or a convenient opportunity to catch their victims off guard. Confirm the validity of the source before clicking a link or scanning a QR code. Be wary of public Wi-Fi and charging stations which can give hackers an opportunity to steal personal information or install malicious software on your device. 

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