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Unfortunately, criminals who specialize in scamming and the people who fall victim to their tactics continue to increase in frequency. With each occurrence, scammers learn how to evolve their methods to successfully prey on innocent victims.

One common method is through mail and email. Through these channels, perpetrators use deception to steal personal and financial information. Here at Community First Bank, we want to help you to avoid these risks at all costs. We ask that you rely on your banker for help if you suspect fraud. How do you know when it’s fraud? Read below to learn more.

Recognizing Mail and Email Scams

1. Phishing Emails: Be wary of unsolicited emails asking for personal or financial information. Look for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as suspicious email addresses. Refrain from clicking on links or downloading attachments from senders you don’t know.

2. Fake Prize Notifications: Be skeptical of emails or mail claiming you've won a prize or lottery you never entered. Authentic organizations typically do not ask for payment or personal information upfront to claim a prize.

3. Charity Scams: Watch out for emails or mail soliciting donations for fake charities or causes. Search for charities online to ensure they are legitimate before considering a donation.

4. Overpayment Scams: Beware of emails or mail offering to overpay for goods or services and requesting a refund of the excess amount. These scams often involve counterfeit checks or money orders that later bounce.

Tips to Avoid the Scam

1. Check the legitimacy of any email or mail you receive by contacting the organization directly using information obtained from their official business website.

2. Never provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited emails or mail. Exercise caution when sharing sensitive information online or over the phone, especially with unfamiliar parties.

3. Stay informed about common fraud schemes and tactics used by scammers. Inform yourself and your family on how to recognize and avoid risky situations. Below are two credible resources to use.

Bureau of Consumer Protection | Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov)
Fraud Resources | OCC (treas.gov)

4. Trust your gut. If something seems too good to be true or feels suspicious, it probably is. Proceed with caution, or refrain from engaging.

Community First Bank is Here to Help – Trust Your Banker for Advice & Guidance (H2)

If you suspect you've been targeted by a scam, it's important to contact Community First Bank for advice and guidance. We have dedicated fraud prevention employees and resources to help customers through fraud situations. Our bankers are trained to recognize signs of fraud and can provide valuable insights and assistance in handling suspicious activity. In some instances, we can even help you recover lost funds. Finally, reporting fraud to your banker may prevent others from being victimized and you’ll be helping others remain safe. That’s what “community” banking is all about!