Blog

Steps to Take After Noticing Fraudulent Activity on Your Account

Finding fraudulent activity on your bank account can be a distressing experience, but acting quickly and decisively can help minimize the damage and protect your finances. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you notice unauthorized transactions on your account:

1. Close your card – The first and most immediate step you should take is to close your compromised card immediately. You can close your card from your phone with the First State Bank Nebraska Mobile Banking App. Just log into the app and click “Cards” at the bottom of the screen. From there, find your compromised card and slide the bar next to “Card is ON.” You’ll receive a pop up asking if you are sure, click “Yes” and your card will no longer be available for use. If you find out later that your card was not compromised, you can slide the bar and confirm the action, and your card will be turned back on and ready to use in real time.
2. Reach out to your branch – After securing your card, contact your local branch directly to report the fraudulent activity and order a new card. While you’re on the phone, they will walk you through the procedure to dispute the fraudulent charges and any documentation you need to provide to get the process started.
3. Review your account – Once your card is closed and your bank is notified, carefully review your account to identify all fraudulent charges. Be sure to go through the past few months of your transaction history. Documenting all fraudulent charges thoroughly will help when disputing them with your bank. Make sure to keep a copy of your notes and any supporting documentation for your records.
4. Update saved cards and change passwords – Fraudulent activity often indicates that your card information or account credentials may have been compromised. To safeguard your accounts, take these steps:
   • Identify all places where your compromised card is saved (i.e. online shopping sites, subscription services, reoccurring bills) and change your account passwords.
   • Update your payment information with your new card details once you receive it.
   • Be sure to always use strong, unique passwords for each account and consider using a secure password manager to help you keep track of them.

Noticing fraudulent activity on your bank account can be alarming, but following these steps will help you address the issue promptly and protect your finances from further harm. Remember to stay vigilant and monitor your account regularly for any unusual activity. By taking swift action, you can mitigate the impact of fraud and maintain the security of your banking information.