Fraudsters may pose as romantic interests or friends in need, fabricating stories that require financial help—such as travel expenses or customs fees.

 

Criminals often send texts, emails, or robocalls claiming to be from your bank. They may warn of “fraudulent activity” and urge you to verify purchases or click suspicious links.

 

Scammers may offer to reduce student loan debt, provide free money for a fee, or cover upfront costs, all of which are designed to lure victims into sending payments.

 

These involve impersonating IT professionals, claiming your computer has issues or that you’re owed a refund. They may ask for remote access or payment via gift cards.

 

How to Protect Yourself

• Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. They usually are.
• Be skeptical of unexpected messages, calls, or emails. When in doubt, ignore them.
• Never share personal or financial information with individuals you’ve only met online.
• Do not accept gifts or send money to strangers.
• Avoid payments via cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. These are often unrecoverable.
• Don't sign in or provide personal information via text. Banks never ask that.
  
• Never click on links from unsolicited messages, even if they appear to be from your bank.
• Be cautious of urgent requests. Scammers often pressure victims to act quickly.
• Consult a trusted friend, family member, or colleague if you're unsure about a message or request.
• Verify any request using a known and trusted contact method.
• Tech support companies will not contact you to report device issues or request payment in gift cards.
• Avoid accepting funds from unknown sources or paying upfront fees.

 

 

 

 

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If you’re ever concerned about a phone call, email, or text that looks like it’s from First Bank & Trust, don’t provide any information.

Instead, contact us immediately.