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Prevent Fraud
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Detect Fraud
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Report Fraud

Proactive steps for peace of mind.

Fraud prevention starts with awareness. Protect yourself by following these best practices.

Tips for prevention:

  • Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
  • Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual activity.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for personal financial information.
  • Avoid clicking on links in emails or texts from unknown senders.

 

Spot fraud before it happens.

Fraud isn’t always obvious. Knowing what to look for can help you take action quickly.

Common warning signs:

  • Unauthorized charges or withdrawals on your account.
  • Emails or texts that create urgency, such as “Verify your account now!”
  • Unexpected offers that seem too good to be true.
  • Phone calls claiming to be from your bank or the government, requesting personal information.

What you can do:

  • Verify communications by contacting the sender directly using a trusted source.
  • Trust your instincts – pause and investigate if something doesn’t feel right.

 

Take action quickly

If you suspect fraud, acting fast is the key to minimizing impact.

Secure your accounts:

  • Change your passwords immediately and enable multi-factor authentication.
  • Notify your bank or credit card company.

 

Report the fraud:

 

Monitor your credit:

  • Review your credit report for suspicious activity.
  • Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with all three credit bureaus.

Tools and resources to help protect against fraud:

Fraud Alerts

Real-time notifications for unusual activity.

Learn more

Debit Card Controls

Instantly freeze your card if it’s lost or stolen.

Learn more

Account Monitoring

Use our mobile app to track transactions 24/7.

Download mobile app

Stay Informed: Latest fraud trends

Fraud tactics evolving quickly. Here are common scams to watch for in 2025.

  • Account Takeovers: Criminals use stolen usernames and passwords to break into accounts. They may also send repeated login requests to wear you down until you approve one. Tip: Use strong, unique passwords and turn on multifactor authentication (MFA). 
  • Phishing and Smishing: Emails and text messages that look like they’re from a trusted company – often shipping updates, password resets, or bank alerts – are designed to make you click a malicious link. Tip: Don’t click links you weren’t expecting. Go directly to the company’s website. 
  • AI Impersonation Scams: Fraudsters now use AI to clone voices and create realistic videos, making it easier to impersonate leaders, family, or support staff. Tip: Always confirm unusual requests with a phone call to a known number. 
  • Crypto and Investment Scams: Also called “pig butchering,” these scams build trust over weeks or months, then pressure you to invest in fake cryptocurrency or trading platforms. Tip: Be cautious of unsolicited investment offers, especially those that seem urgent or guaranteed. 
  • Real-Time Payment Fraud: With faster payments, scammers trick victims into sending money instantly – often posing as a bank, vendor, or relative in need. Once sent, funds are difficult to recover. Tip: Pause and verify before sending money, even if the request looks urgent. 
  • Business Email Compromise: Targeting businesses, criminals impersonate executives, HR, or vendors to redirect payroll or invoice payments. Tip: Always verify changes to payment instructions by phone, not email. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I protect my accounts from fraud?

To protect your accounts, use strong unique passwords for online banking, enable multi-factor authentication, and regularly monitor your account activity for unauthorized transactions. Avoid sharing sensitive information via email, text, or phone calls, especially if the communication seems suspicious.

What is multi-factor authentication (MFA), and why should I use it?

MFA is an extra layer of security that requires a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password. It adds protection against unauthorized access, even if someone has your password.

How do I recognize a phishing email?

Look for red flags like poor grammar, generic greetings (e.g., “Dear Customer”), urgent requests for personal information, or suspicious links. Always verify the sender’s email address and contact the company directly if you’re unsure.

What are signs that my account may have been compromised?

Signs include unfamiliar transactions, notifications of password changes you didn’t make, or messages from your bank about login attempts from unknown devices. If you notice any of these, contact us immediately.

What should I do if I suspect fraud on my account?

Call our Client Service Center a at 833.325.3787 immediately. We’ll help secure your accounts, investigate suspicious activity, and guide you through the recovery process.

Should I report a scam if I didn’t fall for it?

Yes. Reporting scams helps us warn other clients and take preventive measures. Share as much detail as possible, including emails, texts, or phone numbers associated with the scam.

Can I lock my debit card if I lose it?

Yes. Use our debit card management tool, CardValet app to instantly lock your card, preventing unauthorized transactions. You can also unlock it if you find it.

Will I be held responsible for fraudulent charges?

Alerus has a zero-liability policy for unauthorized transactions for personal accounts, as long as you report the issue promptly. Contact us soon as you notice suspicious activity.

What should I do if my identity is stolen?

Visit identitytheft.gov to create a recovery plan. You should also report the incident to Alerus, file a police report, and monitor your credit for further signs of fraud.

What is a deepfake scam, and how can I avoid it?

Deepfake scams use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to create fake videos or audio that impersonate trusted individuals, such as company executives or loved ones. Always verify requests for money or sensitive information through a different method of communication.

How often should I check my accounts for fraud?

It’s a good habit to check your accounts weekly and review monthly statements carefully. Regular monitoring helps you catch suspicious activity early.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious email or text claiming to be from Alerus?

Do not click any links or provide information. Alerus will never send unsolicited emails asking clients to provide, update or verify their personal or account information , such as passwords, Social Security numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs), credit or debit card numbers, or other confidential information.

Forward you email to alerus@alerus.com for review, then delete it. Contact us directly to verify its authenticity.