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    Fraudulent E-mails Claim to be from FDIC

    Protect yourself from fraudulent e-mails
    Criminals attempt to steal personal financial information (account numbers, passwords, Social Security Numbers) and other sensitive or confident information by sending fraudulent e-mails or redirecting you to phony websites that appear similar to, if not identical to, a legitimate one. This is referred to as "Spoofing" or "Phishing".

    The e-mails will likely warn of a serious issue that requires your immediate attention or requests that you "update," "validate," or "confirm" your account information. You may be directed to click a link or call a telephone number.

    We will never e-mail you asking for personal information.

    If you receive an e-mail with our name or logo directing you to a website or telephone number that asks for your account number, social security number, credit/debit card number, or other personal information, do not provide this information. It is an attempt by criminals to gather information and steal your identity.

    If you are in doubt about an e-mail you received from us or another institution, always contact the company using the telephone number on your bank statement or in the phone book. Alternatively, directly type the company's URL into your browser and proceed to log into your account. Do not click any links included in the e-mail.

    The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has provided the following valuable tips to assist you in protecting yourself from phishing schemes.

  • If you get an e-mail or pop-up message that asks for personal or financial information, do not reply. And don't click on the link in the message, either.
  • Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and keep them up to date.
  • Don't e-mail personal or financial information.
  • Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them.
  • Be cautious about opening any attachment or downloading any files from e-mails.

    Please refer to http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt127.shtm for more details.

    Remember, we will never e-mail you asking for personal information.

    If you receive such an e-mail, don't provide any information. If you think you have been a victim of this crime by providing information, please contact your financial institution immediately.


    If you have questions, please review our Online Privacy and Security Policies


    Return to South Valley home page.


 
Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, First National Bank of Central California, South Valley National Bank, San Benito Bank, Pacific Capital Bank, and First Bank of San Luis Obispo are members of The Network of Preferred Community Banks and divisions of Pacific Capital Bank, N.A., member FDIC.

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