"Phishing" refers to the process that cyber-criminals use to lure passwords and financial data in order to defraud users. They may send an e-mail message designed to appear as if it came from your financial institution or an Internet merchant, and/or create a counterfeit web site that looks like a legitimate one. Replying to phishing e-mails, or using a link that may be embedded in a phishing email, puts your accounts at risk.
Using the Internet to conduct business is still safe and convenient. Westamerica Bank will proactively keep customers informed of pertinent information as we become aware of it.
What can you do to protect yourself?
Westamerica Bank will never ask you for sensitive information via email (such as Social Security Number, Login ID, Password, Personal Identification Number, or account number). Do not trust or act upon unsolicited e-mails that request such information.
To go to Westamerica’s website, type our web address, www.westamerica.com, into your browser and bookmark it (save as a favorite page); use the bookmark/favorite derived from hand-typing our address for subsequent visits to our website. Never use a link embedded in an e-mail message to get to our website.
Regularly access your browser’s website to download security patches, which may protect you against a variety of software vulnerabilities.
Pay close attention to your bank statements and credit card statements. If you see anything unusual, immediately report it to your bank or card issuer.