First Community National Bank joins banks across nation for cybersecurity

As part of October’s National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the American Bankers Association is hosting a nationwide anti-phishing campaign called “Banks Never Ask That.”

First Community National Bank joined the American Bankers Association and banks across the nation in launching a first-of-its kind, industry-wide campaign to educate consumers about the persistent threat of phishing scams. 

The FTC estimates that consumers lost $1.9 billion to phishing schemes and other fraud in 2019 and the ongoing pandemic has only increased the threat. To combat phishing, the #BanksNeverAskThat campaign uses attention-grabbing humor and other engaging content to empower consumers to identify bogus bank communications asking for sensitive information like their passwords and social security numbers.

“The theft of personal information is a huge business, but there are ways that you can protect yourself,” comments Scott Perkins, FCNB President and CEO. “Keeping your contact information up to date, creating strong passwords, protecting devices, monitoring account activity, and being alert for scams can prevent financial exploitation.”

“This campaign is an unprecedented effort by the banking industry to address a growing threat to our customers,” said Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO. “Thanks to participating banks like FCNB Bank, we’re turning the tables on the bad guys by giving consumers the tools they need to spot illegitimate bank communications.”

FCNB Bank, along with banks across the country and ABA, are simultaneously launching the campaign in October to coincide with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Throughout the month, FCNB Bank will share consumer tips on social media and directly with customers designed to highlight common phishing schemes.

Because cybersecurity education and fraud awareness can often be dull and forgettable to many consumers, the campaign is designed to be bright and bold with a bit of comedy. At the campaign’s website www.BanksNeverAskThat.com, consumers will find the #BanksNeverAskThat quiz, videos, phishing red flags, and tips on how to stop fraudsters in their tracks.

For more information on FCNB Bank, visit www.fcnb.com.