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Home > Safe Banking > Personal

Step 1 of 4

Recognize

Spot the signs of fraud before they become a problem. The same five warning signs show up in almost every scam, whatever channel it arrives through.

Start here · 3 min read

Five Signs Something Isn't Right

Every day, people receive text messages, emails, phone calls, and online offers that seem perfectly legitimate. Most are exactly what they appear to be. Some are not.

Read the article

Step 2 of 4

Verify

Don't trust the request. Verify it another way. You don't have to know whether something is a scam. You only need to know how to check.

Start here · 3 min read

Verify Before You Trust

Recognizing that something doesn’t seem right is an important first step. The next step is even more important: Today’s scammers are skilled at making emails, text messages, phone calls, and websites look legitimate. They may use familiar company names, recognizable logos, or even phone numbers that appear to belong to a trusted business.

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Step 3 of 4

Protect

Build layers of security around your accounts. A handful of habits, practiced consistently, protect more than any single tool.

Start here · 4 min read

Build Habits That Protect You

Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated. When people think about cybersecurity, they often imagine complex technology, sophisticated hackers, or constantly changing scams. While technology certainly plays a role, the truth is that many of today’s most common scams can be prevented by developing a few simple habits.

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Step 4 of 4

Respond

Take action quickly if something doesn't seem right. Most problems have a solution, and the first few steps matter most.

Start here · 3 min read

Know What to Do Next

No one expects to click the wrong link. No one plans to misplace a debit card, receive a convincing scam, or discover an unfamiliar transaction on their account.

Read the article

Keep this handy

Personal Confidence Card

Safe banking doesn't require technical expertise. It starts with a few simple habits: recognize when something doesn't seem right, verify before you trust, protect with good habits, and respond quickly if something goes wrong. Keep this card handy as a quick reminder.

Recognize

  • Ask yourself: was I expecting this message, call, or offer?
  • Be cautious when someone creates urgency or asks for secrecy.
  • Pause if asked for passwords, one-time codes, or debit card information.
  • Pause if asked for gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or unfamiliar apps.
  • Trust your instincts when the wording or request feels unusual.
  • Remember: you only need to recognize when it's time to pause.

Verify

  • Never verify a request using the same message that asked for action.
  • Use the number on your debit card or your monthly statement.
  • Open the company's app or type the website address yourself.
  • Slow down if told to act immediately or keep this confidential.
  • Talk with a family member, trusted friend, or your local banker.
  • Remember: slow is smart, and trusted advice is one conversation away.

Protect

  • Use a unique password for every important account.
  • Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication whenever it's available.
  • Keep your phone, computer, and apps up to date.
  • Lock your devices when you're not using them.
  • Review your account activity regularly and turn on account alerts.
  • Think before sharing personal information online.

Respond

  • Stay calm. You don't have to solve everything at once.
  • Secure your accounts: change passwords, lock your card, secure devices.
  • Contact First Bank of Berne if your financial information may be involved.
  • Continue monitoring for unfamiliar transactions, login alerts, or unusual activity.
  • Follow the guidance you receive and keep notes of who you contacted.
  • Learn from the experience and build one stronger habit.

When in doubt: pause, verify, ask questions, and start with us. If you're ever unsure about an email, text, phone call, website, or payment request involving your finances, contact First Bank of Berne before taking action. Call your local branch, stop by, or use the number on the back of your card or on our website. Helping you bank with confidence is part of what we're here for.

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Five Signs Something Isn't Right

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Five Signs Something Isn't Right

Every day, people receive text messages, emails, phone calls, and online offers that seem perfectly legitimate. Most are exactly what they appear to be. Some are not.

Read the article

AI Is Making Scams More Convincing

Personal Safe Banking · October 1, 2026

AI Is Making Scams More Convincing

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing many parts of our daily lives. It can help businesses work more efficiently, improve customer service, and create new opportunities for...

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Not sure? Start with us.

Still have questions?

If something claims to be from First Bank of Berne and you're not sure, contact us before you respond. Call, stop by a branch, or send a secure message. You don't have to figure it out alone.

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