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Bank of the San Juans
Online Banking Access

Security Center

Electronic banking offers exceptional convenience and efficiency for customers, and we use the latest technology and tools to ensure it’s safe and secure as well.

Along with everything we do, you play the most important role in protecting your personal information and accounts. Being aware and informed about how to protect your personal information is the first line of defense. Criminals look for opportunities to gain access to your accounts by tricking you into giving them personal information in different ways. You can avoid giving them what they need by staying informed about common practices.
  • Protect your user names and passwords or PIN’s. Don’t give them to anyone
  • Contact your bank regarding any suspicious activity
  • Keep your social security number in a safe place - never carry it with you
  • Report lost or stolen credit cards, debit cards, drivers license or ID cards immediately
  • Shred any documents you no longer need that have personally identifiable information
  • Report any missed account statements to your bank in case they have been stolen from your mailbox
  • Sign up for eStatements. This keeps your information out of the hands of thieves who might steal them from the mail or trash
  • Use anti-virus software – These are programs that have been designed to detect viruses which may infect your computer through emails you receive or programs you download from the internet
  • Firewalls – Used to block outside attacks from hackers, filter infected files or emails, and alert you if an unauthorized user tries to access your system
  • Encryption – With this technology, your data is encrypted, or scrambled, so even if it is intercepted by criminals it won’t be easy to read or use
  • Passwords – The more complex the password, the less likely it is to be deciphered by a perpetrator using even the most sophisticated techniques.
    • To create safer passwords:
    • Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters
    • Create a completely unique password for each application or account
      o Avoid using everyday words that can be found in the dictionary
    • Don’t create passwords that are specific to you such as your spouse’s name or your birthdate
    • Change your passwords often
  • Software Updates – many viruses take advantage of bugs in software. Updating frequently will protect your computer
  • Log-Off – always log off and close your browser especially when using a public computer. The next person to use it might be able to access your account if you haven’t logged off properly.
We want you to know about ways you can protect your information. The following web sites offer helpful information and consumer guidance, and we encourage you to visit them. If you are ever in doubt about a request for information, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your bank is aware of most scams and has access to key resources when new ones appear.
  • Tips on privacy, identity theft and online security.
  • Scam alerts

  •  Protecting yourself online
  • Information about types of Internet Fraud
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a scam or financial fraud, the following are different organizations to file reports with:

  • FBI portal to file an Internet crime complaint.
  •  Report Identity theft
  • Report Mail Fraud (Mailed Scams, example: Sweepstakes, lotteries, work-at home scams)
  • Report Identity Theft

Information about current fraud scams:

Wire fraud occurs when criminals use electronic methods to deceive individuals or businesses into transferring money to them under false pretenses. Scammers often pose as legitimate entities, such as bank representatives, government officials, or business partners, to trick victims into sending funds. Here is a printable guide on how to protect yourself from wire fraud. The content is below: 
 

Common Wire Fraud Schemes

Phishing Emails or Calls: Fraudsters impersonate a trusted organization and request sensitive information or money transfers.
Business Email Compromise: Hackers gain access to a company’s email system and impersonate executives or employees, directing fraudulent wire transfers.
Impersonation: Scammers pose as loved ones or colleagues in distress, requesting emergency wire transfers.
Romance Scams: Victims are lured into sending money to someone they've met online, who may be posing as a romantic partner.
 

Signs of Wire Fraud

  • Unsolicited requests for urgent money transfers.
  • Unusual emails or phone calls from unfamiliar contacts.
  • Requests for funds to be sent to unfamiliar or overseas accounts.
  • High-pressure tactics to transfer funds quickly.
 

How to Protect Yourself

Verify: Always double-check any request for wire transfers. Call the person or organization directly using contact information you already have (not the number in the message).
Be Cautious: If something feels off or too urgent, trust your instincts. Scammers use urgency to pressure you.
Secure Your Information: Never share your account details, PIN, or password with anyone.
Confirm Wire Transfers: Always confirm large or unexpected wire transfers, particularly if the request is out of the ordinary.
 
Once a wire transfer is sent, it is often extremely difficult or impossible to recover the funds. Scammers act quickly and often use methods that make it challenging for banks or authorities to trace the transaction or return the money. Always be cautious before making a wire transfer, especially when dealing with unfamiliar individuals or situations.