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Security FAQs



ATM/Card Safety

Report a lost or stolen card immediately.

During Business Hours
  • To report a lost or stolen card during our normal business hours, call Signature Bank and speak with Card Services:
    • 419-841-7773
After Business Hours
  • To report a lost or stolen card after our normal business hours, call:
    • Visa Credit Card: 866-839-3485
    • Mastercard Debit Card: 888-297-3416
  • Emailing account information: Never email account information such as your account number or PIN. Email is not a secure form of communication.
  • Making purchases online: Prior to making purchases online, be sure that the site has built-in security features to protect your account information. All reputable merchant sites use encryption technology to protect your private data from being read by others as you conduct an online transaction. Look for signs of security such as a padlock in the status bar at the bottom of the browser window, a web address that begins with https://, or the words Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). These signs indicate that only you and the merchant can view your payment information.
  • Using a public computer: When using a public computer to shop online, always remember to log off and completely close the browser session. All it takes for someone to view your information is to simply click the “back” button.
  • Verified by Visa: This free service protects you when shopping online using technology to confirm your identity. When completing your online transactions with participating merchants, you may be prompted to create a Verified by Visa password, enter your password if you have previously enrolled into Verified by Visa or enter a One-Time Passcode (OTP) using SMS messaging or email.
  • Protect your information: Implement antispyware, antivirus protection and antivirus software updates on your computer as soon as they are available. Only use a computer that has a firewall in place.
  • Making purchases outside of Ohio and Michigan: If you attempt a signature-based Debit Card Transaction outside of Ohio or Michigan and are declined, please attempt your transaction as a DEBIT (PIN) transaction.
  • Contact your bank: Signature Bank recommends you contact us at 419-841-7773 any time you plan to travel outside your normal spending area. Notifying us in advance allows us to note your travel route and destination to avoid denying transactions in the event you are traveling in areas of the country or abroad that are considered high-fraud areas.
  • Carry at least two cards at all times: We recommend that you carry at least two cards with you at all times. This is important in the event that your card is not accepted by a certain merchant, or if it is blocked, stolen or misplaced.
  • Keep some cash on hand at all times: Carry enough cash for a day’s safety net in the event that you have problems with your card.
  • Daily spending limits: Check with Signature Bank to determine if your card is subject to any daily spending or cash withdrawal restrictions. Also keep in mind that hotels will hold funds on your debit card, thus making less money available to you.
  • International transaction fees: Your Signature Bank Visa and/or MasterCard can be used internationally. There is a fee that is charged by Visa and MasterCard on every international transaction. Please refer to your card or account disclosure for specifics.
  • Customer service contacts: Keep your Visa/MasterCard account number and the lost/stolen customer service contact telephone number in a safe place (separate from your wallet or handbag).
  • Review statements: It is recommended that you review your statements when you return. Go through them carefully and contact Signature Bank immediately if you detect any suspicious or incorrect charges.
  • Verify all transactions on your card account often: Report unauthorized transactions to the bank immediately.
  • How Signature Bank will monitor card activity: We review transactions and may call you if we detect an unusual spending pattern or suspicious transaction. In addition, if transactions look fraudulent we may block the card from use until we confirm the activity with you.
  • Fraud monitoring system: Signature Bank has a 24-hour fraud monitoring system working on our behalf to monitor transactions on our debit cards and credit cards. You may receive a text message, email and/or phone call from this service during or after business hours to verify transactions only. You should not be asked for any personal information when receiving these alerts. Please be sure to respond to the text, email or any voicemail messages. For Debit Card voice messages, the return phone number is 855-293-2456. For Credit Card voice messages the return phone number is 800-369-4887. You may also contact Signature Bank (Monday – Friday from 8:30 A.M to 5:00 P.M.) at 419-841-7773 to verify the validity of the transactions. Your card may be temporarily blocked until the transactions can be verified.
  • Your contact information: Be sure Signature Bank has up-to-date telephone numbers and emails in our system to contact you.
  • Protect your cards as if they were cash.
  • Do not leave your cards in your car.
  • Never write down your PIN number or share your PIN with anyone.
  • Check sales voucher to correct purchase amounts prior to signing the sales draft.
  • Make a list of all your cards and card numbers and store in a safe, secure place.
  • Do not lend your card to anyone.
  • Watch your surroundings: If the machine is poorly lit or in a hidden area, consider using another machine.
  • Guard your PIN: Be alert for suspicious activity. Always guard your PIN and transaction amount, and immediately cancel your transaction and leave if you see something suspicious. Guard your personal space when using an ATM or any other PIN-based terminal. Cell phones contain cameras and video capabilities that thieves may use by getting to you when you are using an ATM.
  • Keep your card ready: Avoid counting cash or rummaging through personal items while standing at the ATM.
  • Be safe at the drive-through ATM: When using a drive-through ATM, lock car doors and close windows.
  • Take your receipt: Always take your receipt. It contains personal information that could be helpful to thieves.
  • Be aware of suspicious items on the ATM: Watch for additional card skimming devices and/or cameras that may have been added to the machines. If you believe a machine has been tampered with, DO NOT use the machine. Instead, contact the phone number displayed on the machine to report the issue.









Scams

If you suspect fraud or unauthorized activity, contact us immediately so we can help secure your accounts and guide you through next steps.

You may also consider:

  • Reviewing your recent transactions for unfamiliar activity
  • Updating your passwords and login credentials
  • Monitoring your credit and placing a fraud alert if needed

You may choose to report cyber-related incidents to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), a division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Please note:

  • Reporting to IC3 is optional and does not replace reporting the incident to us
  • IC3 is an external resource
  • Fraudsters may create lookalike websites, be sure you are using the official IC3 site before entering any information

If you’re unsure what to do, start by contacting us, we’re here to help.

A fake online store, also known as lookalike or fraudulent product site, is a website or app that scammers use to trick people into making purchases and steal their money or personal information. Be aware of these red flags:
  • Unbelievably Low Prices: Deeply discounted prices on popular items may indicate a scam.
  • Suspicious Ads: Be cautious of social media ads linking to questionable sites.
  • Lack of Contact Info: Poor website design or missing contact information can be warning signs.
  • Limited Payment Options: Avoid sites with few payment methods and no legitimate customer reviews.
  • Urgent Offers: Be wary of unclear return policies and high-pressure sales tactics.
  • Unusual Caller ID
    While caller ID can be spoofed, legitimate calls from your bank are more likely to display an official phone number or a known identifier. If not, be very skeptical.
  • Scare Tactics or Threats
    Phishing calls rely on a sense of urgency. If the caller pressures you into immediate action or threatens negative consequences, just hang up and call the number on the back of your bank card.
  • Asking for Personal Information
    Banks will rarely ask for your account number, PIN, or password during a phone call — and will never ask for a one-time login code. Never share such confidential details unless you’ve called the number on the back of your bank card.
  • Calling You Unexpectedly
    Be very skeptical of calls you receive out of the blue. Normally, bank representatives will only reach out if you initiate contact first. Stay safe by ending the call and dialing the number on the back of your bank card.
  1. Unusual Email Address
    Take your time. Does that look like an email address your bank typically uses? Exercise caution with unexpected emails from unfamiliar addresses, especially those not typical of your bank's communication.
  2. Misspelled Words
    Do a quick check! If you see misspelled words or odd grammar, they are all clear signs of an impersonator. Legitimate banks use spell check.
  3. Scare Tactics
    Don’t panic. If an email uses scare tactics, such as urgent warnings of account closure or security breaches, you can safely assume it’s a scam.
  4. Suspicious URLs
    Wait a moment. Banks will never ask you to log in via email. Phishing emails use deceptive URLs to take you to malicious websites. Never click links that you weren’t expecting.
  5. Unexpected Attachments
    Stay vigilant. Legitimate banks will never send an email attachment, especially when you didn’t ask for it. Attachments can contain malware that can compromise your computer or personal information. Never click on attachments from emails supposedly from your bank.
  1. Slow down — think before you act.
    Acting too quickly when you receive phishing text messages can result in unintentionally giving scammers access to your bank account and your money. Scammers want you to feel confused and rushed, which is always a red flag. Signature Bank will never threaten you into responding or use high-pressure tactics.
  2. Don’t click links.
    Never click on a link sent via text message, especially if it asks you to sign in to your bank account. Scammers often use this technique to steal your username and password. When in doubt, visit our website by typing our URL directly into your browser or log in to our mobile app.
  3. Never send personal information.
    Signature Bank will never ask for your PIN, password, or one-time login code in a text message. If you receive a text message asking for personal information, it’s a scam.
  4. Delete the message.
    Don’t risk accidentally replying to or saving a fraudulent text message on your phone. If you are reporting the message to law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), take a screenshot to share, then delete it.
Elder fraud is financial fraud or confidence schemes targeted at older adults, making them vulnerable to exploitation. There are various warning signs, including unexplained withdrawals or missing cash from bank accounts, calls for an unpaid bill, requests to modify power of attorney or to change one's will, requests to keep conversations or relationships a secret, and pressure to act immediately. Other red flags include requests to send money via wire transfer, gift card, or prepaid money card, guarantees to make money, attempts to isolate the individuals from their family and friends, and threats of harm, neglect, abandonment, or removal from their home.

A Tech Support Scam is the act of fraudsters attempting to gain remote access to your computer or banking details through unsolicited tech support, often by fabricating non-existent issues. This could include unsolicited tech support, calls, or messages from someone claiming to represent a tech company and offering to troubleshoot a computer issue of which you are not aware. Other red flags include sudden pop-ups or spam emails notifying you of an urgent problem with your computer.
BEC/EAC is a sophisticated email scam that targets both businesses and individuals who perform legitimate transfer-of-funds requests. A fraudster compromises or impersonates an executive, vendor, or trusted contact’s email account with the aim of obtaining access to sensitive business information or other assets.

Fraudsters might:
  • Spoof an email account
  • Send spearphishing emails
  • Use malware
What can you do to protect yourself from BEC/EAC?
  • Verbally verify changes in payment/deposit information
  • Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Educate yourself and your employees on the various types of email scams
  • Check email addresses and domain names for misspellings
The easiest way to protect yourself from cyber-attacks is to remain vigilant.

Account takeover occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to someone else’s financial accounts. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to account takeover fraud.
 
Watch for Payment Scams
  • Scammers often request payments in hard-to-trace formats, such as reloadable or prepaid gift cards, cryptocurrency, or money transfers. Be cautious if asked to send cash or initiate wire transfers.
Pause and Verify
  • Before taking any action, pause and consult someone you trust. Use the “Ten Two Rule” - take 10 minutes to think it over and discuss it with two trusted individuals before proceeding. Check the official website of the organization involved for guidance.
Be Cautious on Social Media
  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal information publicly, as it can help criminals craft targeted scams or answer security questions.
Update Your Contact Information
  • Regularly update your phone number, email address, and physical address on all accounts.
Follow Cybersecurity Best Practices
  • Enable anti-phishing protection on your web browser.
  • Avoid clicking on unsolicited or unknown links.
  • Never recycle passwords or use easily guessable information.
Use MFA and Verbal Passwords
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever available and consider using verbal passwords for added security.
Beware of Phishing Attempts
  • Be cautious of phishing emails, smishing texts, and suspicious calls asking for your information. Remember, your bank will never ask for your PIN, CVV code, Online Banking username, password, or Social Security Number directly.
No, it's not legitimate. Government agencies do not send payment requests via text. Official notices are always sent by U.S. Mail. If you receive a payment request by text for tolls, tickets, or vehicle fees, it is a scam. Do not click any links or respond.
 
If you already clicked a link or shared personal information:
  • Immediately contact your bank or credit card provider to secure your accounts.
  • Monitor your financial statements closely for suspicious activity.
  • Report the incident to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
Bank impersonation scams are happening nationwide. Do not share any login information, verification codes, or passwords. Hang up, contact the bank immediately using a trusted phone number, and delete the message. Ask the bank to review your account and secure it if needed.
 
Cybercrime is on the rise, and scammers are especially active during the holidays.
 
To protect yourself:
  • Be skeptical of urgent or “too good to be true” offers. Take time to verify before acting.
  • Monitor your financial accounts regularly for suspicious transactions.
  • Never pay with gift cards. Legitimate businesses will not ask for them.
  • Protect your personal information by avoiding sharing details with unsolicited calls or emails.
Staying alert and informed is the best way to enjoy a safe and worry-free holiday season.
 
Immediately disconnect affected systems from your network, contact your IT and cybersecurity professionals, and report the incident to appropriate authorities. Do not attempt to resolve it alone. Having tested backups and an incident response plan improves recovery outcomes.
 


Identity Theft

Identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when someone uses your name, social security number, credit or debit card, bank account numbers or any other personal information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. The damage caused by identity theft is very serious, including victims being denied loans and refused job opportunities.
Anyone can become a victim of identity theft. There are many different methods an identity thief can use to get access to your personal information. Listed below are a few of them:
  • They may steal your purse or wallet.
  • They may steal your mail, including bank and credit card statements, credit card offers, new checks and tax information.
  • They may complete a "change of address" form to divert your mail to another location.
  • They may get your credit reports by abusing their employer's authorized access to them, or by posing as a landlord, employee, or someone else who may have a legal right to access your report.
  • They may rummage through your trash, the trash of businesses, or public trash dumps in a practice known as "dumpster diving."
  • They may obtain the information from businesses by stealing records or information while they're on the job.
  • They may use a computer to hack the information through a business's computer database.
There are also more technologically advanced methods that thieves have developed to obtain your personal information. Some of these include:
  • Skimming - when your credit or debit card numbers are captured through an information storage device attached fraudulently to an ATM machine or point of sale swipe pad.
  • Phishing - when you are contacted by phone or email from someone posing as a representative from a legitimate company claiming to have a problem with your account and asking you for your help in confirming your personal information.
  • Cell Phone Pictures - when someone uses their cell/video phone to film you using your debit or credit card so that they can obtain your name, card number and PIN.
  • Never give out personal information unless you have initiated the contact.
  • Be careful when responding to promotions.
  • Protect passwords or PIN numbers.
  • Be aware of your regular mail delivery schedule.
  • Shred any unwanted documents containing personal information.
  • Don't keep personal information in your vehicle.
  • Review all of your monthly bank and credit card statements thoroughly.
  • Never mail checks/payments by placing them in your mailbox.
  • Review your credit report annually.
  • Immediately contact your local law enforcement.
  • Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
  • Contact your bank immediately and review all accounts.
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
  • Contact your credit card companies and review account history; to ensure safety, close the account.

Helpful contacts in case you have become a victim.

Better Business Bureau
www.bbb.org
703-276-0100

Federal Trade Commission
www.ftc.gov
877-FTC-HELP

Equifax
www.equifax.com
800-525-6285

Experian
www.experian.com
888-397-3742

TransUnion
www.transunion.com
800-680-7289

To request a copy of your credit report:

www.annualcreditreport.com
Phone: 877-322-8228
Mail:
Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105283
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
































































Think you’ve experienced fraud?
Contact us immediately at 419-841-7773.