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Tackle Bad Links Before They Score

Posted on January 30, 2025

Tackle Bad Links Before They Score

 

Tackle Bad Links Before They Score!

 

In today's digital world, scammers are always finding new ways to steal personal and financial information. One of the most common methods is phishing—sending fake emails, texts, or social media messages that look legitimate but are designed to trick you into clicking a bad link.

 

At Citizens State Bank, we want to help you stay protected. Here’s how to spot suspicious links before clicking.

 

What is Phishing?

Phishing happens when cybercriminals send fake messages pretending to be from a trusted source, such as a bank, government agency, or company you recognize. These messages often try to create a sense of urgency, saying things like:

  • "Your account has been locked. Click here to unlock it."
  • "You’ve won a prize! Claim it now by clicking this link."
  • "Verify your payment details immediately to avoid account closure."

These links often lead to fake websites designed to steal your passwords, account details, or personal information.

 

How to Spot a Bad Link

Before clicking on any link, take a moment to check for these warning signs:

  • Hover Over the Link – On a computer, place your mouse over the link (without clicking). A small preview of the web address will appear. If it looks suspicious or doesn’t match the company’s official website, don’t click.
  • Look for Misspellings – Scammers create fake websites with slightly different web addresses, such as "citizensstatebnnk.com" instead of "citizensstatebank.com."
  • Check for HTTPS – Secure websites use "https://" at the beginning of the web address. If it only says "http://," it may not be safe.
  • Be Wary of Shortened Links – Services like bit.ly or tinyurl can hide a malicious URL. If you receive a shortened link from an unknown source, avoid clicking it.
  • Unexpected Attachments – Banks will never send attachments or ask you to download a file to verify your identity. If an email contains an unexpected attachment, delete it.

How to Stay Safe

  • Never click on links in unexpected emails or texts. If you're unsure, visit the company's official website directly.
  • Use strong, unique passwords and update them regularly.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for extra security.
  • Report phishing attempts. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from Citizens State Bank, contact us immediately.

By staying alert and following these steps, you can protect yourself from phishing scams. If you have any questions or need assistance, reach out to Citizens State Bank. We’re here to help.

 

 If you feel you have been scammed or entered your personal information to be sure to block you card on Citizens Digital and call your local office.

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