Security & Fraud Awareness
Our Commitment to Your Security
We are deeply committed to safeguarding your personal information. As fraud tactics continue to evolve and become more sophisticated — including AI-generated voice imitation, fake videos, and personalized phishing messages — it’s more important than ever to stay informed. We encourage you to read the information below, which is designed to help you recognize potential threats and take simple, effective steps to protect yourself. Empowering yourself with knowledge is one of the strongest defenses against fraud.
Tips for Reducing Your Risk of Fraud
- Never share your Secure Access Code, User ID, or Password with anyone – not even us. Scammers may pose as our support team, claim there’s fraud on your account, and ask for a code they “just sent you.” We will never ask for this information.
- Never click suspicious links or attachments in emails, texts, or social media messages. Scammers often mimic bank employees and create convincing messages about suspicious activity or account verification. In fact, this is the most common scam we encounter at Beneficial State Bank. Legitimate emails from Beneficial State Bank will always come from the @beneficialstate.com domain. If you’re unsure, forward suspicious emails or texts to our Customer Care Center for review.
- Do not send personal information via unsecured email. Instead, call our Customer Care Center or send us a secure message through online banking. Always ensure you are calling our verified phone number – do not rely on caller ID alone. Scammers can now use AI to create realistic audio or video messages that appear to come from bank employees, often urging you to send money or share sensitive information. If anything feels off, pause and verify. Use only officially published phone numbers to reach us.
- Use strong, unique passwords. Reusing passwords across accounts is a major risk. Choose strong, unique passwords for each service, and use a password manager to store them securely. Avoid names, birthdays, or common words that are easy to guess or crack with AI tools.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring something only you have—like a text message code or authentication app—in addition to your password. This significantly reduces the chances of unauthorized access, even if your password is stolen.
- Check and update your contact information regularly. Hackers who gain access to your account may change your phone or email on file to intercept fraud alerts. Regularly review your contact details through online banking or our Customer Care team, especially after traveling, changing devices, or updating your number.
- Review your transactions often. Check your account daily or allow push notifications for transaction activity, looking for unfamiliar purchases, transfers, or ATM withdrawals. If you see something suspicious, notify us immediately. Many types of fraud can only be disputed within a specific time window.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial activity. Public Wi-Fi networks aren’t secure. Hackers can intercept data you send or receive, including login credentials. Instead, use your phone’s mobile data connection (which accesses the internet through your cellular network) or a VPN. Also be wary of public charging stations, which can be used to access data on your phone, known as “juice jacking.”
- Stay informed! Tactics are always evolving as criminals adapt to new security measures. View our Cybersecurity guides for individuals and businesses and nonprofits for additional tips.
What To Do If You Have Been a Victim of Fraud
We highly encourage you to take timely, appropriate measures if fraud is suspected.
- If you receive a suspicious phone call or notice a transaction that seems unusual, make sure to record all of the details – such as the caller’s phone number, the time of the call, or specific information about the transaction.
- Immediately notify your Beneficial State Bank client manager, account officer, or local branch. If you are unsure who your account officer is, our Customer Care Center can help connect you with the right person.
- File a complaint with local law enforcement.
Common Scams to Look Out For
- SMiShing attacks (Text phishing) - Beneficial State Bank has received reports of SMiShing attacks, fraudulent text messages that try to persuade victims into providing personal information like your card number, CVV, or PIN. These messages may include a link or phone number that leads to an automated system asking for your details. An example might read: ‘(Card Blocked) Alert. For more information, please call 1.877.269- XXXX.’ Beneficial State Bank will never ask for your CVV2 or PIN. If you receive one of these messages, do not respond. Contact us immediately to report the incident and request a new card.
- Telephone Debit Scam - Beneficial State Bank has received reports of automated calls falsely claiming that customer accounts are frozen. These calls instruct cardholders to dial a toll-free number and enter their debit card details – including account number, expiration date, and PIN number – to reactivate their cards. Do not respond to these calls or provide personal information. Instead, contact us immediately to report the incident.
Keeping Your Credit and Debit Cards Safe
Protecting your cards—both in person and online—is key to preventing fraud. Here are some quick, effective tips to help you stay secure.
When Shopping Online
- Use secure devices. Keep antivirus, firewall, and anti-malware software up to date.
- Check website security. Look for “https” in the URL and trusted security seals.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when online shoppingand never send sensitive info via unsecured email.
- Use credit, not debit cards. Debit card fraud can drain your account instantly, and credit cards typically have more robust legal protection against fraud cases.
- Research unfamiliar sellers. Look for reviews or check with the Better Business Bureau.
When Shopping in Person
- Watch your card. Keep it in sight during transactions and put it away before leaving.
- Save receipts and regularly check your account to match transactions.
General Safety Tips
- Keep a secure record of your card numbers, expiration dates, and issuer contact info (not on your phone).
- Set up alerts for all transactions to catch suspicious activity early.
- Report anything suspicious to your bank immediately.
- Notify your card issuer before traveling or changing your address.
- Act fast if your card is lost or stolen. Call your issuer right away.
Stay Safe at the ATM: Smart Tips for Secure Transactions
Using an ATM is a convenient way to access your money, but it’s important to stay alert and take precautions to protect yourself and your information. Whether you're withdrawing cash during the day or at night, these simple safety tips can help you avoid risky situations and keep your finances secure.
Essential ATM Safety Tips
- Stay Aware: Always be mindful of your surroundings. If anything feels off—such as suspicious people or poor lighting—choose a different ATM.
- Be Prepared: Have your card ready before you approach the machine. Avoid fumbling through your wallet or purse at the ATM.
- Check for Skimmers: Before inserting your card, inspect the card reader for anything loose, bulky, or unusual. If the reader looks tampered with, do not use it and report it to us immediately.
- Protect Your PIN: Shield the keypad with your hand or body while entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
- Keep It Private: Take your receipt and transaction records with you. Never leave them behind or share account details.
- Secure Your Cash: Don’t count your money at the machine. Put it away immediately and check it later in a safe place.
- Drive-Up ATM Tips: Keep windows up and doors locked. If you exit your vehicle, lock it before walking to the ATM.
- Nighttime Precautions: Use ATMs in well-lit, visible areas. If possible, bring someone with you. Avoid machines with broken lights or obstructed views and report any issues to your bank.
Cybersecurity in the News
The latest updates from our cybersecurity partner, Stickley on Security.