1. Immediately Contact Citibank Customer Service: As soon as you notice suspicious activity, call Citibank’s dedicated support line. You can find the number on the official Citibank website or your bank statements. Explain the situation clearly and provide any details about suspicious transactions. This step ensures your account gets flagged for urgent review, and any unauthorized access can be stopped quickly.
2. Change Your Password and PIN: Log into your online banking account through the official website or app. Change your password immediately to a strong, unique one. Avoid using common words or personal details. If you also have a PIN, update it to enhance security. This helps prevent hackers from continuing to access your account.
3. Review Recent Transactions: Carefully check your bank statements and transaction history for any unfamiliar or unauthorized charges. Note down these transactions, as you will need this information when reporting or disputing charges. If you see any suspicious activity, report it to Citibank right away.
4. Report the Compromise to Citibank: Use the official channels to report your compromised account. Besides calling, you can use the secure messaging system within your online account or visit a local branch if convenient. Citibank will guide you through further steps for freezing or closing your account if necessary.
5. Secure Your Devices and Accounts: Run a malware scan on your computer and mobile device to check for viruses or spyware. Ensure your software and security patches are up to date. Change passwords for other financial or important online accounts if you use similar login details. This reduces the risk of further breaches.
6. Monitor Your Credit and Financial Accounts: Keep an eye on your credit report for any unusual activity. You can request free reports from credit bureaus. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze if you believe your identity has been stolen. This adds an extra layer of protection.
7. Enhance Your Account Security: After resolving the immediate issue, activate additional security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA). Regularly review your account activity and update your login credentials periodically. These steps strengthen your defenses against future hacking attempts.
