Fraud Prevention Tips

Protect Your Finances. Protect Your Identity.

Fraud Prevention Tips

At Commercial Trust Bank, your security is our priority. Protecting your identity, accounts, and devices helps keep your finances safe. Here are practical steps to prevent fraud:

1. Identity Protection

  1. Protect Your Identity
  • Carry only essential documents and keep extra cards or sensitive information securely at home.
  • Never share personally identifiable information (PII), such as your date of birth, address, or account details, unless absolutely necessary.
  • Keep photocopies of important cards and documents in a safe place to act quickly if lost or stolen.
  • If you receive an unsolicited call, hang up and contact the Bank through official channels.
  • Do not provide payment information during unexpected calls or messages.
  • Shred documents containing personal or financial information before disposal.
  • Review your credit and debit card statements regularly to identify any unusual activity.

2. Account and Cheque Book Safety

  • Avoid pre-signing cheques and always use permanent, dark ink.
  • Check your account statements frequently and report suspicious activity promptly.
  • Prevent alterations by ruling off blank spaces and writing “only” after the amount in words.
  • Do not print personal information on cheques and store both new and cancelled cheques securely.
  • Carry your chequebook only when necessary.
  • Keep your contact details updated with your branch.

3. ATM Card Security

  • Treat your ATM card like cash and report lost or stolen cards immediately through official channels.
  • Never store your PIN with your card or share it via email or phone.
  • Monitor statements regularly and report discrepancies promptly.
  • Change your PIN periodically and avoid obvious numbers such as birthdays or phone numbers.
  • Use your card only with trusted merchants and log out completely after online purchases.
  • Keep or dispose of receipts securely to prevent misuse.

4. Online Security

  • Avoid using personal information, such as birthdates or addresses, in passwords or PINs.
  • Create strong, unique passwords for online banking and update them regularly.
  • Keep passwords confidential and do not write them down or share them.
  • Only conduct transactions on secure websites (look for “https” or a padlock icon).
  • Limit personal information shared on social media; fraudsters may use it to impersonate you.

5. Mobile Security

  • Enable device security features such as screen locks or biometrics.
  • Delete financial messages before selling or disposing of your device.
  • Keep account numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information private.
  • Avoid storing banking credentials on your device or in unsecured apps.
  • Keep your operating system updated and avoid jailbreaking or modifying your device.
  • Use secure networks and avoid public Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for financial transactions.

6. Computer Security

  • Download software only from trusted sources.
  • Keep your operating system, browser, and applications updated.
  • Install and regularly update firewalls and antivirus software.
  • Avoid using public or shared computers for banking; use only secure, trusted devices.
  • Protect your home network by configuring your router correctly and following manufacturer guidance.