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Security Center

Working together to help keep your account safe!


Unfortunately, threats to your account security and personal information are increasingly part of everyday life. Today, more than ever, you need to know how to protect yourself against internet and email hazards like phishing, spyware, viruses, spam and more. Below, you will find useful information and education on ways you can take control to safeguard your identity, money, privacy and property.

  • Keep your contact information up to date. In the event we see suspicious activity on your account, we'll be able to quickly contact you,
  • Create strong passwords. A strong password means a strong defense against hackers.
  • Don't cash checks for other people. You may want to help other people, but never cash a check in exchange for cash. 
  • Do your homework. Read and inspect everything, Whether it's an email, text or arrives in another form, always read the fine print. If an offer looks suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is. 
  • Don't share personal information. With the correct information, scammers can access every aspect of your life. This includes financial and other accounts, as well as stealing your identity. Never share account numbers, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, passwords, PINs, or security codes with anyone - unless you know the person or know it's a legitimate request.
  • Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Don't accept sales pitches that pressure you to act quickly without first reviewing the fine print. 
  • Avoid paying fees. If you're sent any offers, prizes or job openings that require an up-front fee, chances are it's a scam. The same goes for offers from unverified sources that require bank account information in order to redeem or claim them. 
  • Use your best judgment. If something doesn't feel right to you, don't move forward - whether it's giving out personal information or clicking on an email link. If you've never received a phone call from the FTC before, think about why you would receive one.
  • Utilize recommended Bank services. Take advantage of the free services CB&T offers to help protect you. Speak with the staff at your local CB&T branch to learn more.
Bottom Line - The best way to safeguard your bank account and other personal information is to be proactive in managing who has access to it. 
Protect yourself - always be suspicious of calls, emails, texts or any communication you receive from someone you don't know - particularly if they want money or your personal information. Below are examples of common scams and tips to be more secure. 

  • Hot Deal -
    • "FREE Registered puppies! Only asking for rehoming fee to cover cost already incurred. Must sign contract today and secure with deposit." 
    • Be wary of great "deals" on social media sites. Once you send money you may not get it back.
  • Someone You "Know" -
    • "I'm with the IRS and you owe back taxes. If not paid immediately, a lawsuit will be filed against you."
    • Be cautious if you're told to take action right away. Think about what they're asking for and verify that they are who they say they are.
  • "Accidental" Payment -
    • "I didn't mean to send you that money!  Please send it back to me right away."
    • Never return any unexpected funds without calling CB&T first.
  • Romance -
    • "I can't wait to meet you but don't have the money for airfare.  If you send it to me, I can come this weekend so we can be together!"
    • Don't send money to anyone you've only spoken to online or by phone.
  • Computer Virus -
    • "We've detected malware on your computer. Give me access remotely so I can fix that for you."
    • Never give anyone remote access to your computer unless you can 100% verify who they are.
  • ATM Withdrawals -
    • "I had trouble getting my card to read. I can show you how I held it to make it work."
    • Don't accept help from strangers at the ATM. Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for people looking at your screen. 
  • You've Won! -
    • "Congratulations! You've won the lottery! We will need to collect taxes prior to your payment."
    • Do not send money to claim a prize. Chances are it's a scam. 
  • Home Closing -
    • "These are the wire instructions to close on your house."
    • Be very cautious of last-minute changes to payment instruction and call your agent or loan officer directly to verify wire instructions before you send money. 
  • Investments - 
    • "You've registered to receive notifications on investment opportunities. Are you ready to invest? I have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!"
    • Research the person or company you're dealing with, and make sure they're legitimate.
If you believe that you are a victim of fraud, please call us immediately at 1-800-550-1873.
 
  • If your debit card is lost, compromised, or stolen:
    • Report your card by calling 1-800-550-1873 during business hours or 1-800-500-1044 after hours.
    • Monitor your accounts carefully for fraudulent activity. 
 
  • If you receive a suspicious e-mail or text message:
    • DO NOT click on any links, open any attachments, or use contact information provided within the e-mail. 
    • Call us at 1-800-550-1873 to verify that we did not send the e-mail or text message.
    • If you receive an e-mail that claims to be Citizens Bank & Trust Company but you suspect it is fraudulent, please report the e-mail by forwarding it to fraud@cbtva.com. 
    • If you receive a text message that claims to be from Citizens Bank & Trust Company but you suspect that it may be fraudulent, please take a screenshot of the text message, to include the phone number it was from, and send an e-mail to fraud@cbtva.com.

  • If someone has fraudulently gained access to your computer or mobile device: 
    • Call us immediately at 1-800-550-1873 to notify us. 
    • Turn the device off.
    • Do not log into your Online Banking or Mobile App until a CB&T team member has instructed you that it is safe to do so.

  • If it is confirmed that you have been a victim of identity theft:
    • Call us immediately at 1-800-550-1873 to notify us or visit a local branch.
    • Contact the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your file. Be sure to request a copy of your credit report to identify all unauthorized activity.
    • Contact law enforcement. Keep a copy of the police report to show creditors.
    • Close all accounts that may have been compromised or fraudulently opened. Identify these accounts by using the credit reports received from the three major credit bureaus. 
    • Change all online username and passwords for compromised accounts.
    • File a complaint with the FTC.
    • Monitor your accounts carefully for fraudulent activity online, by phone, or with your monthly statements.
As part of its Safe Banking for Seniors program, the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation offers free resources to help older adults and their families prevent elder abuse and exploitation. 

For handouts and other materials provided by the ABA Foundation, please visit the ABA's Safe Banking for Seniors resource page. 
 
Topics include: 
  • Power of Attorney Overview
  • Choosing a Power of Attorney
  • Evaluating Potential Executors
  • Understanding Probate vs. Non-Probate Assests
  • 5 Ways to Spot a Lottery Scam
  • 7 Tips to Help Older Adults Choose the Right Caregiver
  • 14 Red Flags for Elder Financial Abuse
  • Don't Fall Victim to the Grandparent Scam







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Credit Cards


Citizens Bank & Trust Company credit cards are designed to meet your financial needs.
 
  • Earn points or cash back
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • ID Theft Protection™