Scam Alert: Scams on the Rise this Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, it is important to be extra-vigilant for scams. Scam attempts rise this time of year, and we’re already seeing an increase in bank impersonation scams. Be on the lookout for scammers who pose as City employees, even making City phone numbers appear on caller IDs. Here are a few tips on how to spot an imposter and protect your accounts.

How you’ll know it’s us

If someone from City ever calls about your account, we will NEVER request:

• Full account number
• Online banking login credentials
• Security code or one-time passcode
• Remote access to your device
• You to click on a link and enter information

How to know it might be a scam

• You’re asked to provide sensitive account, personal or debit card information, logins, passcodes or account numbers
• You’re directed to click a link to login or enter information
• You’re asked to download an application to provide remote access
• You’re warned to take immediate action to avoid being charged or losing money

If you receive a call and want to verify it’s us, you can always hang up and call the bank yourself at a number you know to be legitimate.

As we continue through the holiday season, be aware that scammers take advantage of the generosity, increased spending and overall busyness of the season to mislead and steal money. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. And you can always stop, think, and give a trusted friend a call before buying something, making a donation, or confirming information.

If you’re afraid you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your local branch or our Customer Care Center at 888-816-8064.