Personal Banking Security
Latest security alerts
People's United Bank will never make or send unsolicited calls, emails or texts asking customers to provide, verify, or update passwords, usernames, debit/credit card PINs or security codes, or account information such as Social Security Number, Account Number, Card Number, or other personal information.
If you receive a suspicious email that appears to be from People’s United Bank, please forward it to abuse@peoples.com.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud call 1-800-894-0300
In this new banking scam, you get a phone call or text from a scammer claiming to be from your bank. In some cases, the scammer may even alter the caller ID information. Then, in order to gain access to your online accounts, the caller claims there is suspicious activity and asks you for private information like your account number, online banking ID or password, and other personal information. By this point, you will have received a texted security code from your bank, sent as a way to gain access from an unknown computer (the scammer’s computer). The caller will ask you for this security code, claiming to use it to verify your identity. The security code will give the scammer full access to your account.
Our commitment to you
People's United is committed to protecting your private information, as well as providing our deposit customers with quality online banking services in a secure customer-friendly environment.
While People's United Bank works toward protecting the confidentiality of your online information, we can't do it alone. Just as in the real world, where you take steps to protect your financial information, you will need to take ownership of your online security.
Protect what matters
Just as you protect your home from burglars by installing locks and leaving lights on when you are not home, your home computer must be protected from cyber thieves.
No one wants to become a victim of cyber fraud, but if it does happen, responding to it quickly is of the utmost importance. Below are ways to help you identify when you may be the victim of cyber fraud, or when you should consider contacting us for assistance.
- Do not respond to unexpected emails or click on pop-up web pages asking for personal information or your password—Someone may be trying to steal your information.
- If you receive a maintenance screen after you logged into the site with your ID and password, it may be an indication of malware on your PC.
- If you see unknown transactions or balance inconsistencies on your bank account statement—Contact People’s United Bank immediately.
- If you receive an email alert regarding a change of password, change of email address, or transaction that you did not initiate—Contact People’s United Bank immediately.
Computers that are not appropriately protected can become an open gateway for cyber criminals to access your online account or perform malicious activity. Unfortunately antivirus alone is not enough to protect you from malware. Below are basic tips to protect your computer.
1. Update your computer software and operating system regularly—Adobe, Java, Internet browser, etc.
2. Update your anti-virus software and scan your computer for viruses regularly.
3. Turn off your computer when not in use - A computer cannot be compromised when it is off.
4. Use encryption on your home wireless network.
5. Do you click on attachments or links in unsolicited emails.
6. Beware of suspicious pop-ups that request you to act immediately.
Your online account has built-in security options you can use to protect your online accounts. Don’t wait until you’re a victim of cyber fraud to protect yourself.
1. Check Your Last Login Date: When you logon, your last logon date is displayed on the People's United Bank welcome page. Always check this date to ensure someone else is not using your account.
2. Register Your Computer: Not only will this make logging on to your account quicker, it reduces the chance that the answers to your security questions will be compromised.
3. Check your Email Alerts: Alerts will notify you about activity on your account. Review alerts immediately can protect against fraudulent activity on your account.
4. Enroll into E-Statements: Receive your statements electronically. Paper statements can divulge your financial information if stolen from your mailbox.
5. Review Account Activity: Review your online accounts for any transactions you did not initiate. Early detection may prevent large losses.
6. Use a strong Password: Passwords should include ALL of the following: at least 8 characters, both letters and numbers, and avoid using common words. The best passwords are not words found in the dictionary.
When you use a mobile device (cellular phone, iPhone, iPod touch®, AndroidTM-powered device, or other device) for browser or text-based account access, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use the keypad lock or phone lock function on your mobile device when it is not in use. These functions password-protect your device so that nobody else can use it or view your information. Also be sure to store your device in a secure location. Frequently delete text messages from your financial institution, especially before logging out, discarding, or selling your mobile device.
2. Never disclose any personal information via text message (account numbers, passwords, or any combination of sensitive information like your social security number or birth date that could be used in ID theft).
3. People’s United Bank will never contact you via e-mail, text, or other means for purposes of obtaining your sensitive information, passwords, or mobile phone information (SIM card #, serial #, IMEI #).
4. If you lose your mobile device or change your mobile phone number, remove the old number from your mobile banking profile ASAP at peoples.com or call customer service at 1-800-894-0300. Contact your mobile carrier ASAP for assistance in handling your lost or stolen phone / device.
Mobile banking applications are programs you can download to your mobile device. Applications or “apps” that let you monitor your finances and conduct certain transactions are increasing in popularity.
1. To ensure the safety of your personal account information, download mobile apps from reputable sources only. We encourage users to download the most recent version of our apps. You can download the People's United Bank iPhoneTM App from the iTunes® Apps Store and the People's United Bank Mobile App for AndroidTM from the Android Market
2. For your security, sign off when you finish using a People's United Bank app rather than just closing it.
If you have suspicions about the authenticity of a mobile banking app, web-enabled mobile phone users can visit peoples.com automatically linking you to our official mobile banking site.
The Fraud Watch Network
People's United Bank is proud to collaborate with AARP on the Fraud Watch Network to provide consumers, of all-ages, with instant access to educational resources and information designed to fight identity theft and fraud.
Tips to prevent fraud and identity theft
Here are some everyday ways you can protect yourself from fraud and identity theft.
Make it your top priority to check your credit regularly
Check credit card and bank statements regularly
Be on the lookout for skimmers or bugged keypads
Only provide it only when absolutely necessary
Retrieve mail ASAP or invest in a locking mailbox
Keep them strong and change them on a regular basis
Shred all mail and bank documents with your personal info
Be selective with whom you share your personal information
Keep your firewall, antivirus and spyware protection up-to-date
© 2020 People's United Bank, N.A.