How to Avoid Online Scammers, and Bank Safely from Home

By Michael Cherny, Chase Region Director, Brooklyn/ Staten Island/ Bronx

With COVID-19 putting a financial strain on American families and businesses, the distribution of stimulus checks is a sign of relief for many, but it’s also bringing new scam threats.

The government estimates that more than 80% of Americans will receive a stimulus payment during these challenging times, and millions will receive a paper check in the mail.

Here's what you need to know about banking digitally and staying safe from fraud:

Save a Trip

• You can safely use your bank’s mobile app or website to handle most common banking tasks like depositing checks, paying bills, sending money to friends, and locking and unlocking a credit or debit card. Chase customers can go to www.chase.com/stayconnected to enroll in digital banking, learn how to download the Chase Mobile app and watch how-to videos that walk you through it.
• If you have accounts at another bank, check out their website for their digital and mobile capabilities.
• If you don’t have a bank account check in with BankOn for affordable options that would let you manage your money digitally.

Spot & Avoid

• Financial institutions will not ask for confidential information—such as your name, password, PIN or other account information—when they reach out to you.
• Experts suggest triple-checking any social message, email or solicitation you receive, especially if it mentions COVID-19 and avoiding emails that have an urgent call to action or suspicious links, especially when the call or email asks for personal information.
• Only access your bank via the mobile app or website. Do not click links in an email or on social media.

Report Suspicious Activity

• The Federal Trade Commission offers information about common COVID-19 scams and a form to submit complaints: ftc.gov/complaint.
• The government will never call out of the blue to ask for money or your personal information (like Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers).
• Anyone who tells you to pay by Western Union or Money Gram, or with a gift card, is a scammer. The government and legit businesses will never tell you to pay that way.

At Chase, we’re working hard to give you up-to-date information on how to prepare for these payments and challenging times. For information visit the irs.gov or www.chase.com/stimulus

Please stay safe and take good care of yourself and your loved ones. We’re here to help you map your way during this uncertain time and beyond.