Scam/Fraud Security

What is cybersecurity?

Protecting yourself against hackers and criminals or unauthorized use of your electronic data and measures taken to ensure protection.

Here are some ways to keep yourself safe:

• Keep software up to date
• Avoid opening suspicious emails
• Keep hardware and all devices up to date
• Use a secure file sharing solution
• Use anti-virus and anti-malware
• Use a VPN to privatize your connections
• Check links before you click, only open emails from addresses you know
• Do not give confidential information out over the phone
• Avoid using the same password for everything
• Make your passwords complex, but something you can remember
• Do not write passwords down on pieces of paper
• Do not provide confidential information on an unsecured website

Scammers are targeting small businesses through their most trusted financial tools- learn how to stay ahead.

QuickBooks Update Scam
Scammers impersonate Intuit via emails, calls, or pop-ups, urging users to update QuickBooks to fix "critical vulnerabilities" or avoid losing access. They may also falsely claim you are out of storage and need to purchase cloud space. 
Fact Check: QuickBooks Online (Simple Start, Essentials, Plus) does not have a hard data storage limit and does not require cloud storage purchases. Data is automatically and securely backed up. Only the Advanced version offers optional backups to services like Dropbox or Google Drive. 

Fake Invoices or Payment Requests
Fraudulent emails may mimic legitimate vendors and include links to pay invoices, redirecting you to scammers instead.

Customer Support Scams
Scammers may call or email claiming there is an issue with your QuickBooks account or computer. They will offer to "fix" it, often requesting remote access or sensitive information.
Reminder: Intuit will never contact you unsolicited to resolve computer issues.

Phishing Emails
These emails are designed to look like official Intuit communications and aim to steal login credentials, install malware, or collect personal data. 

Fraudulent Software Sales
Unauthorized websites may sell counterfeit versions of QuickBooks Desktop, which can compromise your security and lead to fraudulent charges. 

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Verify All Communications
Look for red flags like urgent language, requests for personal information, or suspicious links.

Use Official Channels
Legitimate Intuit emails come from @intuit.com. When in doubt, visit the official QuickBooks website or contact verified support. 

Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links or Attachments
Never click on links or download files from unknown or unverified sources.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds a layer of protection by requiring a code sent to your mobile device in addition to your password.

Educate Your Team
Train employees to recognize phishing attempts, suspicious calls, and fake pop-ups. Encourage reporting of any unusual activity.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Regularly update your QuickBooks password and avoid reusing passwords across platforms.

Install and Maintain Antivirus Software
Keep your antivirus software up to date and run regular scans to detect threats.

Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect a scam, disconnect from the internet and report it to Intuit at security@intuit.com. 

Information gathered from Ketel Thorstenson CPAs Advisors; Article written by Amanda Dennis. Published August 12, 2025.

Your mobile device is with you wherever you go and has potential to be hacked. Always use caution for whatever may pop-up on your screen. To learn more about how to be more secure on your mobile device, click here, and stay safe! 

• Do not click on any links in emails from unfamiliar sources.
• Never reply to an email you are unsure of the legitimacy.
• Hover over the link/sender to see the true link/sender.
• Check the exact spelling in the link, business name, and sender

(ex: rn can look like an m when quickly reading).

• View and shop only the sites you trust and are familiar.
• If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. No deal is worth risking your personal security.
• Unsure of the legitimacy? Type the name of the business followed by fraud or reviews into Google.
• Your browser may also tell you if the site is not secure by the URL at the top of the screen.

• Don’t accept friend requests from anyone you don’t know and be cautious of adding someone you already added as it may be a fraudulent account.
• Never share posts for offers that are too good to be true, full of typos or from unfamiliar pages.
• Avoid the quizzes and fill in the blank links that may reveal personal information (school mascot, mother’s maiden name, first car, etc.).

• If anything feels off about the call or caller, hang up.
• Caller ID can be spoofed.
• Trust your gut!
• If anyone starts asking for your personal or banking information, hang up. If they said they were a business or person you may have a relationship with, give them a call back on the number you have for them.
• Organizations like the Social Security Administration will never call you.

If you receive an unexpected check in the mail, call the number listed for the issuing bank. If the call doesn’t go through or they are unable to verify the check, it is not legitimate and should be discarded.

The United States Postal Inspection Service recovers more than $1 BILLION in fraudulent checks and money orders each year. If you mailed a check that was paid, but the recipient never received it, criminals may have stolen it. To learn more about these scams and how to prevent this from happening to you, click here to download infographic. Stay safe!

Bruning Bank works tirelessly to keep your information safe and secure. However, scammers will do whatever they can to gain access into everyone’s life. Mortgage scams are happening more and more. Click here to learn how to avoid these scams.

• NEVER give out your personal information.
• Keep an eye on your Mobile or Online Banking to help keep track of your funds.
• If you ever have a question about the legitimacy of a check or any financial item, do not hesitate to ask!
• If your account may be compromised, call 1-800-472-3272 or any Bruning Bank location asap.

1. Log into Mobile Banking

2. Select Cards at bottom of screen

3. Screen will show you the cards you have loaded on your app

4. Select the card you need to turn off

5. Swipe the toggle for your card to OFF

6. Call Bruning Bank ASAP

For more helpful information and links from Government Agencies, please visit: Resources | Protect The Good Life