Be Cautious with Unsolicited Emails or Calls
Fraudsters often use fake emails, phone calls, or text messages pretending to be from trusted companies or partners. Avoid clicking on links or providing sensitive information unless you're sure of the source. Always verify through official channels.
Secure Your Website and Payment Systems
Ensure your online payment gateways are updated with the latest security features, including encryption protocols. Customers are more likely to make purchases if they feel their information is secure.
Monitor for Suspicious Activity
Keep an eye on any unusual activity such as multiple high-value orders from a single IP address, shipping addresses that don’t match billing addresses, or sudden spikes in chargebacks. Early detection is key to preventing fraud.
Verify Unusual Transactions
If a customer places an order that seems out of the ordinary (e.g., large quantities of a product, unusual shipping locations, or high-value transactions), don't hesitate to verify the order by contacting the customer directly before processing.
Train Your Team
Make sure that everyone in your company, especially those handling customer data and payments, is aware of common scams and fraud tactics. A well-trained team can quickly recognize and prevent fraudulent activities.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
For sensitive accounts and financial transactions, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your systems.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter a scam or fraud attempt, report it immediately to the appropriate authorities, such as your bank or payment provider, to help prevent others from becoming victims.
Enroll in Positive Pay
The term “positive pay” refers to an automated cash-management service used by financial institutions to deter check fraud. Banks use positive pay to match checks issued by companies with those presented for payment. To Learn more or sign up for free at Premier, reach out to Lindsey Rettenmeier at the contact information below.
The holiday season should be a time of growth and celebration for your business. By taking proactive steps to secure your operations, you can minimize the risk of fraud and focus on providing great service to your customers.
Wishing you a secure and successful holiday season!
QUESTIONS?
Have general questions regarding potential fraud or scams? Ready to sign up for Positive Pay? Reach out to our fraud expert, Lindsey Rettenmeier, at 563-588-1000 today.