Account Take Over (ATO) Fraud

In today’s digital age, Account Take Over (ATO) fraud is becoming an increasingly common threat to banking customers. At Citizens National Bank, we want to make sure you’re aware of the risks and know how to protect your personal and financial information. What is Account Take Over (ATO) Fraud? Account Take Over fraud happens when a cybercriminal gains unauthorized access to your bank account, typically by stealing your personal information. Once they’ve successfully taken control of your account, they may make unauthorized transactions, drain your funds, or even change your account details, leaving you vulnerable to further fraud. These attacks can happen through various means, such as phishing emails, phone scams, malware, or even data breaches at third-party companies. The damage can be financially devastating, but fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim. How to Protect Yourself from ATO Fraud

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords One of the easiest ways that criminals can access your account is by exploiting weak or reused passwords. Create complex passwords using a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using the same password across multiple sites, especially for your bank account.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second form of verification—like a code sent to your phone—before granting access. This makes it much harder for fraudsters to take over your account, even if they have your password.
3. Be Wary of Phishing Scams Phishing is one of the most common methods used by criminals to steal login credentials. These scams often come in the form of fake emails, texts, or phone calls pretending to be from your bank. Never click on suspicious links, and always verify the source before sharing personal information. Citizens National Bank will never ask for sensitive information via email or text.
4. Monitor Your Account Regularly Keeping a close eye on your account can help you catch any suspicious activity early. Check your account balance frequently and review recent transactions. If anything looks unfamiliar, report it immediately to Citizens National Bank. You can easily monitor your account through our online banking or mobile app.
5. Install Security Software Protecting your devices with updated security software can prevent malware and viruses that criminals use to steal personal information. Ensure your operating system, browser, and apps are up to date with the latest security patches.
6. Beware of Public Wi-Fi Using public Wi-Fi networks can leave your personal information vulnerable to hackers. If you need to access your bank account while on the go, use a secure network or enable a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your data.
7. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately If you notice any unusual activity in your account or suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam, contact Citizens National Bank right away. Our team is here to help you secure your account and minimize any potential damage.

Stay Secure with Citizens National Bank At Citizens National Bank, your security is our priority. By staying informed about ATO fraud and taking proactive steps to protect your information, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of attack. We encourage all our customers to implement these security practices and reach out to us with any questions or concerns. Together, we can safeguard your accounts and ensure a secure banking experience.