How to Avoid Scams

You are in the best position to identify suspicious activity in your account. Monitor your account closely and contact us if you don't recognize a transaction.

Covering the Basics

• Never lend your credit or debit card to anyone
• If you move, notify Third Coast Bank in advance of your change of address
• Sign your credit and debit cards as soon as you receive them
• Don't write your PIN on your card or anywhere near your card in case your wallet is stolen

Using your Card at ATMs / Retail Stores

• Do keep an eye on your credit or debit card every time you use it, and make sure you get it back as quickly as possible
• Do shield your card number so that others around you can't copy or photograph it
• Carbon paper is rarely used these days, but if used in a credit card transaction, destroy it immediately

Online Fraud Prevention

• Never provide your credit or debit card information on a website that is not secure (a secure connection will display "https:" in the website address and the lock in the bottom right corner of the browser window)
• Stick to online merchants that have a trustworthy reputation. Read their privacy policy (if you can't find it, that may be a red flag) and find out what security features are in place
• Make sure your computer has a firewall installed and keep your browser software and anti-virus program updated

Email Fraud Prevention

• Never respond to emails that request your credit or debit card information via email or verification of your personal (and credit or debit card) information via a website. These scams are called "phishing."
• Third Coast Bank does NOT initiate emails seeking personal information such as account numbers, card PINs and Social Security numbers. If you receive a suspicious email from TCB or about your TCB account, please forward it, as an attachment, to us at phishing@thirdcoast.bank. We will investigate on your behalf.

Keeping Financial Information Secure at Home

• Shred all received credit card applications and any documents with your credit or debit card numbers
• Check for unusual activity or charges by reviewing your checking account and credit card statements promptly
• Treat your credit card statement like your checking account statement – reconcile it monthly. Report suspicious charges promptly to Third Coast Bank at 833-844-7708 (tel:833-844-7708)  or in person at a branch. Never leave your cards or receipts lying around or accessible to others
• Never write your card number on anything that may be visible to the public (e.g., a payment slip that may show through the envelope payment window)
• Obtain your credit report on a regular basis and make sure everything appears correct
• Keep personal records, payroll information, insurance files and other sensitive information stored securely and out of sight. Half of all identity fraud is committed by friends, family members, relatives, employees, live-in caregivers and other individuals working in or around the home