We talk to customers every week who've received suspicious calls or texts, and we want you to know exactly how to handle them. As we move through 2026, staying informed about financial security is more important than ever. Cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated methods to target bank customers, and in 2024 alone, Americans lost a staggering $47 billion to identity fraud and scams. The good news? Understanding a few key protection strategies can make all the difference. 

 

The Current Identity Theft Landscape

Identity theft has reached alarming levels. Every 4.9 seconds, someone in the United States becomes a victim. AI-generated phishing attacks surged by 1,265 percent since 2023, and scammers can now clone voices with just three seconds of audio. One in four adults have already experienced an AI voice scam. The threats are evolving rapidly every day. Here’s what you need to know.

 

Know the Scams, Protect Yourself

AI Voice Cloning Scams

Here's the Scam: This particular scam often targets grandparents and retirees: the people who've worked hardest to pour into our community. You receive a call from someone who sounds just like your grandchild or a close family member. They tell you they've been in an accident or have been arrested and need money sent right away. They may ask you not to tell anyone else in the family. The voice sounds genuine because scammers can now use audio from social media videos to mimic someone's voice.

Here's How to Protect Yourself:

  • Hang up and call the person directly at a number you know is theirs
  • Ask questions only the real person would know
  • Be extremely wary of requests for wire transfers, mobile payment apps, or gift cards
  • Never trust "don't tell anyone" requests; real emergencies don't come with gag orders
  • Remember: voices can be cloned and phone numbers can be spoofed

 

Phishing Emails and Text Messages

Here's the Scam: You receive an email or text appearing to be from TFNB, alerting you to suspicious activity. It looks official with our logo and professional formatting. It includes a link asking you to "verify your account" by entering your username, password, and personal information. The urgency pressures you to act without thinking.

Here's How to Protect Yourself:

  • Never click links in unexpected emails or texts, even if they look legitimate
  • TFNB will never ask you to confirm your password, PIN, or Social Security number via email or text
  • Look for subtle red flags in the sender's email address
  • Contact TFNB directly using the phone number on your card, not any number in the message
  • Delete suspicious messages immediately

 

Social Media Information Mining

Here's the Scam: Scammers scroll through your social media, collecting your pet's name, high school, mother's maiden name, and birthday. They use this to answer security questions, reset passwords, or make phishing attempts more convincing.

Here's How to Protect Yourself:

  • Review privacy settings on all social media accounts
  • Never post your full birthdate, especially the year
  • Avoid sharing common security question answers (pet names, schools, mother's maiden name)
  • Think twice before posting vacation photos in real-time
  • Be cautious about quizzes asking for personal information

 

Fake Customer Service Calls

Here's the Scam: Your phone shows a call from TFNB. The caller claims there's suspicious activity and needs to verify your information immediately to prevent fraud. They may know some details about you, making them seem legitimate. They pressure you to provide account information or move money to a "secure account."

Here's How to Protect Yourself:

  • If you receive a suspicious call asking for sensitive information, hang up and call us directly.
  • Call TFNB back at the number listed on your card or statement
  • Never provide account numbers, PINs, or passwords to incoming callers
  • Be suspicious of pressure to act immediately
  • TFNB will never ask you to move money to a "safe account"

 

Simple Steps to Keep Your Accounts Safe

Beyond recognizing scams, you can take these steps right now to protect your accounts:

Strengthen Your Passwords 
We recommend using a different password for each of your accounts, and turning on multi-factor authentication when it's available. This means even if someone gets your password, they still can't access your account without a second form of verification.

Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Check your account activity weekly and set up alerts for transactions over a certain amount or logins from new devices. The faster you spot unauthorized activity, the quicker you can stop it. If you’re unsure how to set up account alerts in online banking, one of our team members can walk you through it

Keep Your Devices Updated
When your phone or tablet prompts you to install an update, go ahead and do it because these updates often include important security fixes. And when you're out and about, avoid logging into your bank account on public Wi-Fi at coffee shops or airports.

Be Careful With Personal Information
Shred any mail or documents with account numbers or personal details before throwing them away. Leave your Social Security card at home in a safe place. And if someone asks for personal information, take a moment to think about whether they really need it and question them if it’s truly necessary.

 

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you notice suspicious activity or believe your identity has been compromised, act immediately:

  1. Contact TFNB and ask to speak to a local banker right away
  2. Change your passwords
  3. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports
  4. Consider a credit freeze to prevent new accounts being opened
  5. Document everything: dates, times, and details of suspicious activity
  6. File a report at IdentityTheft.gov

 

We’re Here to Help Keep You Safe

Identity theft is one of America's fastest-growing crimes, but you're not helpless. By recognizing scam tactics, watching for red flags, and implementing basic security practices, you can significantly reduce your risk.

Remember: TFNB will never call, email, or text asking for your password, PIN, or account information. We'll never pressure you to act immediately or ask you to move money to a "safe account." When in doubt, hang up and call us directly at the number on your card.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and don't hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns about your account security.

Have questions about protecting your accounts? Call us at (254) 840-2836 or visit any of our branch locations. 

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