Internet Safety and Security

Using the Internet connects you to millions of people around the world. Unfortunately the Internet also allows scammers to send fraudulent emails in attempts to get you to divulge your personal information, which is called "Phishing".

For example, you may receive an email that appears to be from a respected business, (eBay, PayPal, etc.) a financial institution or a government agency. Your name may be used, but more often the email message will not be addressed to you personally but will say "Dear Valued Customer" or other generic type greeting. The body of the message may include wording such as "Contact Us Immediately" and may include consequences if you do not respond as in "Your Account May be Frozen or Suspended". In most of these scams there will be a link to a fraudulent website where your personal information is captured.

To protect yourself and your computer from these types of scams:

  • Install a firewall on your computer as your first line of defense.
  • Install, run and update anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
  • Keep your computer up to date with the latest security patches.
  • Never use links contained in an email message to access a website. Open a new browser window and type the URL in the address bar.
  • Be suspicious of any email requesting personal information. Legitimate businesses will never email you requesting personal information
  • Look for "https" when using any website where you may be entering personal information as this denotes a secure site.

Passwords

Passwords are one method of protecting yourself from phishers and other scammers.

  • Use passwords with a combination of letters (upper and lowercase) and numbers and symbols.
  • Do not use passwords containing any part of your name, social security number, telephone number, account number, or any other identifying information.
  • Change your password often or immediately if you think your password has been compromised.
  • Never give your password to anyone else. No legitimate financial institution will ever ask you for your password.

Contact Borrego Springs Bank immediately if you have entered personal information on a fraudulent website.