Online Safety for Kids: Guide to Keeping Your Children Safe in the Digital World Children’s online safety has been a paramount concern ever since easy access to the internet become so prevalent. The internet is a valuable tool for education and social interactions but also harbors risks that can threaten your child’s well-being. From cyberbullying to online predators, the dangers are real and ever-present. If even the...
ACH vs. Wire Transfers: Differences & Best Practices In today's digital financial landscape, choosing the right payment method can significantly impact personal and business transactions. Two of the most common transfer methods are ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfers and wire transfers. While both serve to move money electronically, their differences in cost, speed, and functionality make them suitable for different situations. Whether managing payroll, paying bills, or...
What to Do If You Are a Victim of Fraud Cybercriminals are targeting the financial accounts of individuals and businesses alike, using increasingly sophisticated methods to commit fraud and scam innocent people and businesses worldwide. For small to medium-sized businesses and individuals, having information stolen or falling victim to a fraudulent transaction or data breach can result in significant disruptions and financial losses. At Sunwest Bank,...
Sunwest Bank’s Complete Guide on Malware and Malware Defense In today's digitally interconnected world, the benefits of online connectivity are immense. However, these advantages also come with heightened risks, mainly from various forms of malicious software known as malware, which, in some cases, can put your personal banking information at risk. At Sunwest Bank, our top priority is safeguarding our customers' financial security and sensitive information against...
Impersonation Fraud: A Common Form of Social Engineering Introduction to Impersonation in Social Engineering At Sunwest Bank, safeguarding against cyber threats is a cornerstone of our operations because we know that even the most fortified systems and knowledgeable individuals have vulnerabilities. Among these, the human factor is often the most susceptible to exploitation. Impersonation, a significant aspect of social engineering, involves malicious actors who manipulate human...
What is Identity Theft and How Do You Protect Yourself? What is Identity Theft? Identity theft – often referred to as identity fraud – is a malicious act where someone unlawfully uses your personal information, such as your Social Security Number (SSN) or birth date, to impersonate you. This deceit allows them to apply for credit cards and loans, open bank accounts to write bad checks, redirect...
ACH fraud is the theft of funds through the Automated Clearing House financial transaction network. The ACH network acts as the central clearing facility for all Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) transactions in the United States, representing a crucial link in the national banking system. Payments linger in the ACH network awaiting clearance for their final banking destination....
Almost daily, identity theft and personal information are reported in the news. When customers offer their bank card at the point of sale, over the Internet, on the phone, or through the mail, they need assurance that their account information is safe. In response to this need, the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Security Standards were developed and must be adopted by any merchant or organization...
What is Cybercrime, & How Can You Prevent It? Technology has rapidly become an integral part of our daily lives for decades. Just as fast as the digital world has grown, so has the risk of cybercrime—a continuously growing global threat impacting individuals, businesses, and government agencies. At Sunwest Bank, we are committed to protecting your financial assets and educating you on cybercrime trends. Hence, you...
**We are not tax professionals and any tax advice should be directed to your personal tax expert** Security Tips for Taxpayers: Protect Yourself During Tax Season Tax season involves preparing and filing your tax return and heightened identity theft and fraud risks. Cybercriminals target individuals and businesses alike, hoping to gain access to personal or financial information to exploit for monetary gain. Sunwest Bank is dedicated to keeping...