Fraudulent email activity is increasing. These emails may appear to be from legitimate companies that you do business with, such as your bank, an online auction site, or your Internet service provider.

These deceptive emails are called "Spoof Emails" because they fake the appearance of a popular Web site or company in an attempt to commit identity theft. Also known as "hoax" or "phishing", this practice is occurring more and more frequently throughout the online world.

You are often asked to validate or confirm your personal information by sending a reply, clicking on a link, or opening an attachment. These messages can contain viruses, known as "Trojan horse" programs, designed to record your keystrokes. These emails can also direct you to a counterfeit Web site that appears to be genuine.

Reporting Suspicious Emails:
If you believe you have received a suspicious email claiming to be affiliated with Fremont Bank, please call us at (510) 723-5780 or (800) 359-2265 x 5780 or email us at: onlinebanking@fremontbank.com. If you have entered personal information in response to a suspicious email, pop-up window, or phony web site claiming to be affiliated with Fremont Bank, call us at (510) 723-5780 or (800) 359-2265 x 5780 immediately.

How To Avoid Email Fraud:
With a few simple steps, you can help protect your Fremont Bank accounts and personal information from fraudulent activity:

• Delete any email without opening it, if you don't recognize the sender.
• Be suspicious of any email that asks for personal information, requests your authentication, or indicates a problem with your Fremont Bank accounts. If you receive an email like this, do not reply by email. Fremont Bank does not request personal information from customers via email or pop-up windows.
• Do not open attachments. Fremont Bank does not send email attachments.
• Only provide your personal information if you initiated the sign on process to your account at Fremont Bank.
• Use virus protection software and keep the virus lists current.
• Keep your computer operating system and Web browser up-to-date.