Security Center

At Firstar Bank, protecting your financial information is our priority. With the rise of AI (Artificial Intelligence) and new tactics used by fraudsters, staying informed is more important than ever!

Here are some real-world tips:

 

Use Strong, Unique Passwords + MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication).

  • Avoid simple or reused password across sites.
  • Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever it is offered – especially for banking and email.
  • Use a trusted password manager to generate and store secure passwords.
  • This is your best resource to stay safe online, specifically MFA.

 

Be Aware of AI-Enhanced Scams.

  • Fraudsters are now using AI-generated voices and emails that sound and look very real.
    • If a phone call, email, or text seems suspicious – even if it uses a familiar name or number, STOP!
      • Pause and verify through official channels (check Google for company directories and verify the number that called you is legitimate).
      • If the number is legitimate and it still feels off: hang up and call back.
      • Fraudsters can only spoof numbers when they call!
    • NEVER trust caller ID alone. Spoofed phone numbers are very common.

 

Think Before you Click or Share.

  • Be cautious with links in texts, emails, or social media – especially those urging urgent action from YOU.
  • Avoid entering personal info unless you can confirm the website is legitimate
    • Hallmarks of fraudulent websites
      • The web address starts with HTTP and not HTTPS
      • The website presents you with a security alert about the web certificate not matching
      • Website addresses that just don’t look right
        • Example: Link appears to be from Microsoft, but it directs you to a non-Microsoft website/domain.

 

Secure your Devices.

  • Keep phones, tablets, and computers up to date
  • Use anti-virus software and avoid installing apps from unknown sources
  • Enable screen locks and biometric access (i.e. fingerprint or Face ID)

 

Watch for Unusual Activity.

  • Check your account activity frequently
  • Enable account alerts to receive timely notifications of account activity
  • Report anything suspicious immediately – fast reporting reduces impact

 

What to do if You Suspect Fraud.

  • Contact Firstar Bank immediately!
  • Contact your credit card issuers and freeze credit if needed
  • File a police report and notify the FTC at
  • Document all communications and keep a record of contacts and reference numbers

 

AI-enhanced scams are on the rise. From realistic, fake voices on phone calls to personalized phishing emails, artificial intelligence can be used to make scams more convincing. When in doubt, verify independently – trust your instincts and take your time when making decisions.

For more advice, contact the Federal Trade Commission’s ID Theft Consumer Response Center at 1-877-ID THEFT (1-877-438-4338) or www.ftc.gov/idtheft.