Protecting What Matters Most: You
At Monson Savings Bank, your security is our top priority. Our Security Center is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to stay safe in today’s digital world. Through a focus on recognition, education, and prevention, we help you recognize and respond to threats like identity theft, fraud, and scams. Explore our trusted resources to learn about common scams, proactive steps you can take to protect yourself, and what to do if you suspect you've been targeted. Together, we can build a safer financial future—one informed decision at a time.
Ways to Avoid Scams & Fraud
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Know the warning signs for various scams.
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Safeguard your personal and financial information.
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Stop, slow down, and resist pressure to act fast.
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Talk to someone you trust before you take action.
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Fraud Prevention, Requires Fraud Recognition
Monson Savings Bank knows that a very important part of preventing you become a victim of scams and fraud is helping you to understand and recognize the various types of threats beforehand. That is why we have developed a comprehensive blog library and other resources to make sure you remain protected and secure.
MSB Safety & Security Blog Banzai Scam Checker Coach
Security at Your Fingertips with Mobile Banking
Our secure Mobile Banking app is a secure way to bank, and it boasts many features that can help you stay protected. Make sure you are taking advantage of all the features available to have extra peace of mind.
- Multi-factor authentication helps prevent unauthorized access to your mobile app with an extra added layer of protection.
With CardHub through your mobile banking app help you manage your debit card:
- Account activity alerts can be set to get notified every time your card is used.
- Report your debit card lost or stolen with a few taps, and you can cancel it and order a replacement.
- Lock & unlock your debit card in your Mobile app settings to take immediate action.
- Set location controls to automatically deny in-store transactions outside of your location, or region, and you can block international transactions.
- Manage your travel plans by alerting us directly through the Mobile Banking app.
Debit Card Protection
Automated Debit Card Fraud Detection:
Monson Savings Bank has taken proactive steps to protect your bank accounts by monitoring your debit card and ATM transactions for potentially fraudulent activity through an Automated Debit Card Fraud Detection Service. You may be contacted via phone call and text message alerts, to validate the legitimacy of your transactions, if fraudulent debit card use is suspected.
Automated Debit Card Fraud Detection
CarbHub Debit Card Management:
With CardHub, the power is in your hands. Lock and unlock your card with the tap of a button, report it lost or stolen, view spending insights, set a travel notice, and more - all available through the MSB Mobile Banking app.
Talk to a Banker
We get it, sometimes you want to speak to someone when it comes to your accounts. The buttons below are some topics you may want to learn more about and reach out to us about.
1. Urgent or Threatening Messages
Scammers PRESSURE their victims to act immediately and leave no time to think! The Scammer might threaten to arrest or sue them, revoke license or worse. They may state there is a virus on their computer, and they need immediate access to fix the problem.
2. Scammers Can Be Good Actors
3. Using Upsetting News
Scammers may say there is a PROBLEM, create a sense of crisis by claiming you owe money, a family member is in trouble, or there is a problem with your account.
4. Unsolicited Requests for Personal Information
Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive PERSONAL information (like your Social Security number, passwords, or bank details) via email, text, or phone call out of the blue.
5. Requests for Unusual Payment Methods
If someone asks you to PAY in a specific way like - money transfers, gift cards, money orders, person-to-person payment apps, cryptocurrency - it’s almost certainly a scam.
6. Too Good to Be True Offers
Whether it’s a surprise PRIZE like a lottery win, a guaranteed investment return, or a job that pays thousands for little work—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Fraud Moves Fast—You Should Too
Protect yourself by immediately reporting any suspicious activity. If you believe your bank account may be compromised or you have experienced any security related events, please contact us at 413-267-4646.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
If you suspect that your identity has been used fraudulently, we urge you to visit the Federal Trade Commission's website to report identity theft.
| Report Identity Theft (FTC) | FTC Toll-Free Hotline: 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338) |
IdentityTheft.gov |
| Report Fraud (FTC) | FTC Consumer Response Center 877-382-4357 |
ReportFraud.ftc.gov |
You can also obtain detailed advice on proactive steps you should consider taking to protect yourself, including:
- How to order obtain an annual free copy of your credit reports
- How to place free, one-year fraud alerts on your credit file
- How to place extended fraud alerts and security freezes on your credit file
Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Report
If you believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft or fraud, placing a fraud alert on your credit report is a smart first step. A fraud alert warns creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
You only need to contact one of the three major consumer reporting companies — they are required to notify the others.
| Equifax | 1-800-525-6285 | www.equifax.com |
| Experian | 1-888-397-3742 | www.experian.com |
| TransUnion | 1-800-680-7289 | www.transunion.com |
ChexSystems Security Freezes, Fraud Alerts, and Reports
To help protect your identity and monitor activity related to your deposit accounts, you have the right to place security freezes or fraud alerts on your ChexSystems consumer file.
A security freeze is a powerful tool that prevents others from opening checking, savings, credit accounts, loans, or other financial services in your name without your explicit consent.
Additionally, you are entitled to request a free copy of your ChexSystems consumer report. Reviewing your report regularly can help you monitor for unauthorized inquiries or suspicious activity related to your deposit accounts.
To place a freeze, fraud alert, or request your report, visit ChexSystems’ official website or call their toll-free number.
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ChexSystems Security Freeze |
1-800-887-7652 | |
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ChexSystems Security Fraud Alerts |
1-888-478-6536 | |
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ChexSystems Consumer Report |
1-800-428-9623 |
File Complaints
File a report with your local police or law enforcement agency. Have a copy of your FTC complaint form available. Obtain a copy of the police report and case number for future reference.
If you're looking to report or learn more about internet crimes, consumer fraud, or cybersecurity threats, there are several trusted U.S. government resources available to help you. These agencies provide tools for reporting scams, understanding your rights, and protecting your personal information online:
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Learn more
A partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center, IC3 accepts online Internet crime complaints from the person who believes they were defrauded or from a third party.
Consumer Fraud (Department of Justice) Learn more
Offers resources and legal information on consumer fraud and how to report it.
FTC Consumer Response Center Learn more
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) handles complaints about deceptive or unfair business practices and provides consumer education.
Consumer Guides and Protection Learn more
A comprehensive guide to consumer rights, fraud prevention, and government services.
FTC Online Privacy and Security Learn more
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers tips and tools to help you protect your personal information and stay safe online.
U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) Learn more
The US-CERT provides alerts and bulletins on current cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.
Not Sure If It’s a Scam? Let’s Check.
Received a suspicious text, email, or voicemail? The Scam Checker Coach is here to help. In just five quick questions or less, this tool can help you determine whether a message is likely a scam—so you can protect your personal information and finances.
To begin, simply click “Get Started” and follow the prompts.
Scam Checker
Coach Session • 3 minutes
Safety & Security Blog Posts
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or cybersecurity advice. Personal banking customers should consult with qualified professionals regarding their individual financial and security needs. Monson Savings Bank is not responsible for any losses or damages resulting from the use of this information.
