What is "Phishing?"
Through the use of fraudulent emails, Internet thieves attempt to "phish" for your confidential information. They attempt to steal this information from you by means of "pop-ups" or emails with Internet links to deceive you into disclosing sensitive information (such as bank account numbers and Social Security numbers).

Oftentimes the email appears as if it comes from a trusted source (such as your bank) and directs you to a "spoofed" website that encourages you to divulge sensitive information. Additionally, some phishing emails will attempt to install software on your computer (commonly known as "spyware") to capture your keystrokes so that thieves may obtain confidential information like login IDs and passwords.

American Bank will not send you unsolicited emails with embedded links or pop-up windows that ask for confidential information.

Do not reply or click on a link in a message if the message you received is asking for personal or financial information.

Never e-mail personal or financial information. E-mail is not a secure means of sending information. If you do decide to send your information through a company's Web site, make sure the site is secure. You can do this by verifying that it has a lock icon on the browser's status bar or that its URL begins with "https:" (the "s" stands for secure). Keep in mind, though, that no indicator is foolproof. Even the security icons have been forged by Internet thieves. For additional methods of verifying a secured site, refer to our security & browser info page.

Open and review bank account and credit card statements immediately after you receive them to ensure that there are no unauthorized or fraudulent charges on them. If you are a victim of identity theft, early detection and treatment will be key in minimizing the effects of the fraud.

Use anti-virus software and make sure it stays current with the latest virus definitions. Some phishing e-mails contain software that can harm your computer or even trace your activities on the Internet. Staying up-to-date with good anti-virus software and a firewall can protect you from most of these dangers.

Be cautious about opening an attachment or downloading any files from e-mails you receive, especially if you are unsure about the sender.

Report any suspicious emails relating to your American Bank accounts to customerservice@americanbank.com.

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