Dear Valued Bay State Customer,

We want to call your attention to a remote access scam that has been gaining momentum so that you are prepared and can avoid falling victim.

Perpetrators have been contacting individuals and businesses through unsolicited emails, texts, and telephone calls to trick their targets into downloading a remote access app on their mobile or other electronic device. Downloading such an app can allow scammers to monitor their target’s activity and potentially take full control of their target’s device. Scammers have been stating that they are affiliated with any number of retailers, banks, or major brands including but not limited to Amazon or PayPal. In some instances, scammers are asking their targets to “authenticate” themselves by conducting one or more transactions through Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal. Scammers may also ask their targets to log into online banking while the remote access app is running. This can compromise your login and account information.

Please remain vigilant. When you receive an unsolicited communication, whatever form it takes, and regardless of whom it appears to be from, be cautious. Do your homework. If you believe the communication may be legitimate, confirm that by looking up the official number or email for the business that is reaching out to you. You should never have to download a remote access app in response to one of these unsolicited communications. Legitimate businesses will never ask this of you. Keeping this in mind can help you avoid falling victim to these scams.

There are somber statistics out there with respect to the success that scams like these are seeing. According to a study conducted by FICO released earlier this week:

• 72% of surveyed Americans have received an unsolicited text, email, phone call or other outreach they thought was part of a scam
• Nearly half (43%) of respondents said their family and friends had been victims of scams
• 25% of Americans have lost at least $5,000 to scams while 46% have lost up to $500

Avoid Becoming The Victim:

• Be cautious of suspicious and unsolicited texts, emails, and telephone calls, especially those that ask for any personal or account information
• Avoid clicking any links in unsolicited emails or text messages
• Verify the legitimacy of unsolicited communications from financial institutions and businesses by contacting the companies at their official telephone number or email as may appear on their official website
• Use strong passwords and never share them with anyone
• Monitor your account statements and online account activity regularly
• Notify all the financial institutions you use immediately if you identify suspicious activity, if you have become the victim of identity theft, or if you have experienced related fraud on an account here or at any other financial institution

We are proud to be your bank, and working together is the best way to help protect your money. Your security remains our priority just as we remain at the ready to assist you.

Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.