Criminals are increasingly using text messages, emails, and phone calls to get remote access to computers, phones, tablets & more. 

Understanding how these schemes work—and knowing how to protect yourself—are essential components of safeguarding accounts and identities.

A remote access scam involves someone pretending to be someone from your financial institution, the government, or another trusted organization. They insist an account or device was compromised, then pressure victims into downloading software. Once installed, they steal money, passwords & private information. Here’s what to do to stay safe:

• Stop: Be cautious of unsolicited contact. Even if it sounds important, take a moment before engaging in any steps they suggest. 
• Drop: When in doubt, hang up calls, trash emails, delete texts, or close the website. Then contact us to verify if something is truly necessary.
• Delete: if targeted, remove any related software and run anti-virus scans to remove viruses.

If you receive unsolicited messages, don't engage— call 1-800-999-3961 and forward them to phishing@ americafirst.com.

Staying informed and alert is one of the best defenses, so be sure to visit americafirst.com/about/security for news & updates.