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Security

Learn the most common scams to watch for and the everyday habits that keep your business safe and confident.

Steps to take if something looks suspicious:

Don't respond to questionable messages.

Save anything suspicious.

Let your team know so everyone stays aware.

Quick Tips

Trust your instincts

If something feels unusual, stop and verify before taking action.

Require strong passwords.

Turn on multi-factor authentication, too.

caution alert

Identify red flags

Be cautious of urgent emails, new vendor requests, or messages asking for passcodes.

Update business software.

Outdated software can contain exploitable flaws.

Back up business data.

When you back up critical information, recovery is faster and less stressful.

Encrypt business data.

Encrypting your data and devices strengthens your defense against attacks

Suspicious emails, scam texts, and fraudulent calls

Scammers may pretend to be a vendor, coworker, or even a boss to get you to act quickly.

Look out for:

  • Email addresses with odd spelling
  • Urgent or secretive instructions
  • Requests for login details or one-time passcodes
  • Unexpected attachments or links

👉🏻 Your next move: Delete, block, ignore, and never share codes. 

Fake invoices or vendor payment changes

You might get invoices for items you didn’t order or from someone pretending to be a real vendor.

Look out for:

  • First-time or surprise charges
  • New banking information sent by email only
  • Pushy or rushed communications

👉🏻 Your next move: Take a minute to confirm payment details by contacting the vendor directly. When something feels off, it usually is.

Businessman studying paperwork

Service and contractor scams

An offer that’s “too good to be true” for repairs, supplies, or services could land in your lap.

Look out for:

  • Deep discounts that seem unrealistic
  • Requests for large upfront payments
  • No written agreements or vaguely worded contracts
  • No reviews, references, or online presence

👉🏻 Your next move: Get everything in writing and verify vendor credentials. If you’re unable to confirm the details, skip the offer and stay safe.

Image of woman looking concerned while resting her head on her left and while looking at the cell phone screen in her right hand

Check fraud

Checks can be stolen, altered, or tampered with while in transit. 

Look out for:

  • Vendors asking about missed payments
  • Check amounts or payee names that look changed
  • Checks that appear unusual or tampered with

👉🏻 Your next move: Use electronic payments when you can. If your business uses checks, store them in a secure location.

Young businessman looking over invoices.

Small habits that make a big difference

Stay in control with digital banking

  • Turn on multi-factor authentication
  • Create strong, unique passwords
  • Set account and transaction alerts
  • Keep your contact information current

Protect your payments

  • Make electronic payments when possible
  • Store checks in a secure location
  • Add Positive Pay for an extra layer of fraud protection
  • Require two approvals for large payments

Know who you are working with

  • Put every agreement in writing
  • Verify references and histories
  • Confirm any changes using trusted, verified contacts

Empower your team

  • Share real examples of fraud attempts
  • Encourage employees to speak up when things feel off 
  • Limit access to sensitive systems and information

Safeguard customer data

  • Utilize Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliant tools and systems
  • Update software regularly
  • Encrypt all sensitive customer information

Your business, backed by Everwise

  • Our Business Services team is here whenever you need support
  • Encrypted digital banking protects your information
  • Multi-factor authentication strengthens your logins
  • Real-time alerts and 24/7 monitoring keeps you informed
  • Positive Pay helps stop check fraud before it reaches your account

FAQs

Can Everwise notify me if something unusual happens with my account?

Yes, you can set up alerts in online and mobile banking for activities in your account. These notifications can help you notice anything out of the ordinary right away.

Are electronic payments safer than checks?

Yes. Electronic payments are harder to alter and much easier to track. Checks can be intercepted, stolen, or changed while in transit. Switch to electronic payments whenever possible.

What should I do first if something seems suspicious or if a teammate already sent a payment to a potential scammer?

Reach out to us right away and share any details you have. Stop any communication with the sender until we speak with you. We’ll help you determine whether you’re dealing with fraud and walk you through next steps.

How do I verify a vendor?

Look for reliable reviews, licenses, and a clearly written agreement. For any payment changes, call the vendor using a number you already trust. Never rely on contact information listed in an unexpected email or text message.

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