We have seen an increase in scams where fraudsters impersonate our fraud department and make calls or texts appear as if they are coming from our legitimate phone numbers, a tactic called spoofing.

Here’s how the scam works:

• You receive an unexpected call or text about a suspicious charge on your account.
• When you say you didn’t make the charge, the scammer claims your account is compromised and offers to help.
• To gain your trust, they may insist that our branches have been compromised or that an “insider” is stealing from you and that you should not come in and speak to us in person.
• They then pressure you to take immediate action, such as downloading an app or providing your account number, debit/credit card number, passwords, or online banking security questions. They may even keep you on the phone for hours to prevent you from calling us directly.

Important reminders:

• We will NEVER ask you to download any app other than our official mobile app.
• We will NEVER request your passwords, account numbers, or security questions.
• Our branches have NOT been compromised.

If you receive a suspicious call like this, hang up immediately. Then, call us directly at 419-625-9025 to verify. Trust your instincts — if a call feels off, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Seasonal Security Tips for Holiday Shopping:
Scammers also take advantage of the busy season with other tactics:

• Phishing Attacks: Beware of fake shipping notifications. Hover over links before clicking, and when in doubt, go directly to the shipper’s website.
• Fraudulent Websites: Stick to trusted retailers. Research unfamiliar sellers and read reviews before purchasing.
• Fake Offers: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid clicking on pop-up ads or suspicious links.
• Package Theft: Arrange deliveries for when you are home or use secure lockers. For expensive items, request signature confirmation.
• Card Skimmers: Use ATMs inside reputable businesses and inspect machines for tampering. Consider contactless payment options for added security.

Stay safe, shop smart, and enjoy the season knowing your accounts are protected. If you have any concerns, call us at 419-625-9025.