The Provident Bank is committed to maintaining the privacy and security of our customer's personal information. We are taking this opportunity to inform you of an important security issue that exists on the internet today, and to provide you with suggestions for avoiding this fraudulent identity-theft tactic called "phishing."

What Is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of internet scam designed to steal your personal information. In a phishing scam, an online imposter creates a counterfeit e-mail, which you may think of as an official communication from your financial institution. The goal of the scam is to trick you into entering your personal information. The imposter tries to obtain sensitive information such as your Social Security number, credit card numbers, passwords, or account related information in order to purchase goods or access your accounts.

Unauthorized use of a customer's account and asset information obtained through phishing is also referred to as "account hijacking"

Please be aware that The Provident Bank will never ask you for confidential account information in an email.

How do I protect myself from a Phishing scam?

You wouldn't think of revealing private financial information to anyone who asks, without verifying their identity, so don't do it online. Below are 4 tips on how to avoid becoming an internet fraud victim. As part of our ongoing commitment to security, we will continue to keep you updated with practices that will help you keep your privacy and information safe.

1) DO NOT respond to any suspicious e-mail requesting information. If you have questions, telephone the company and talk to a customer service representative. Don't use the number on the e-mail (it could also be fraudulent.)

2) Never include sensitive information in an e-mail you are sending.

3) If you want to access secure or sensitive information (such as updating your account), go directly to the company website by typing the address into the web address bar, not by clicking a link in an e-mail.

4) Whenever you transmit sensitive data online, make sure the website is secure. A closed lock icon will appear at the bottom of your web screen. Also the web address will begin with https. (Notice the “s,” short for “secure.”)

5) To date, The Provident Bank has reported no “phishing” incidents. However, if you receive suspicious emails claiming to be from The Provident Bank, please notify Customer Service immediately at 1-800-448-PROV.