Malicious Software

Equip yourself with the knowledge to keep your data safe.

Protect Your Data from Scammers and Hackers

Scammers and hackers use a variety of computer infections to steal sensitive data. Staying vigilant online allows you to effectively protect your personal information, computer, and finance

Common Types of Malware:

Virus

A small piece of malicious software that is connected to real programs or attachments found in e-mail messages. The virus is undetectable until the program is run, or the attachment is opened.

Trojan Horse

A computer program that is disguised as something else, such as a recently downloaded game or app. This program is intended to do damage to your hard drive or disk when you run it.

Keylogger

A computer program that logs each keystroke a user types on a keyboard. It can also capture screenshots, log passwords, record online chat conversations, or take different actions to invade your privacy.

Scareware

Malware designed to trick users into believing their computer is infected with a virus or other serious issue. It typically involves fake security alerts, warning messages, or pop-up ads that suggest the user’s system is compromised to create fear and urgency, prompting the user to download fake security software or pay for unnecessary services to “fix” the problem.

Preventative Measures

Watch for signs of possible identity theft, such as:

Avoid unknown attachments in e-mail messages. If you do not recognize the sender, delete and report the message immediately.
Avoid downloading pirated software such as music, movies, or video games.
Back up your computer data regularly.
Utilize anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
Carefully read any End User Agreements before clicking accept. Be aware of the phrase “Third party software may be installed”, which could be malware.

Computer Maintenance & Security is Key

While WaterStone Bank does not endorse or recommend specific computer maintenance or security products, below is a list of available products that have been proven effective in protecting computer systems. We encourage you to research and use whichever product you feel best suits your needs and budget.

To reduce chances of identity theft, practice preventative measures, such as:

Malware/Spyware Apps

Spy-Bot
MalwareBytes
Norton
SpySweeper
Ad-Aware

Anti-Virus Apps

Norton
McAfee
AVG
Avira
Kaspersky

Additional Resources

Equip yourself with the latest insights, trends, and precautions against various scams with these resources:

Fraud Videos

Better Business Bureau – Scam Tracker

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Common Scams Overview

Dept. of Homeland Security – “Ready” Financial Preparedness

FBI – Internet Crime Complaint Center

FBI – Common Scams and Crimes

Federal Reserve – Consumer Help for Fraud and Scams

Federal Trade Commission – How to Avoid a Scam

Federal Trade Commission – Identity Theft Recovery Plan

IRS – Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts

USPS – Mail Fraud Complaint Form

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Remember that WaterStone Bank will not call you directly and ask for your personal information.

If you are sending loan related payments or wire transfers, remember that WaterStone bank will not email you wire instructions containing your personal account information such as routing and or account numbers. To avoid falling victim to scamming, be sure to confirm all your information before approving and sending wire and ACH transfers.

If you have any questions or believe you may have fell victim to a scam, please call our Customer Support Center or your local branch immediately.