Online Account Takeover Scams – Stay Vigilant

Online account takeover scams occur when fraudsters gain unauthorized access to your bank account by stealing your login credentials through phishing, malware, or other deceptive tactics. Once in, they can transfer funds, make purchases, or change account settings.

First State Bank customers are reporting text messages and phone calls from scammers claiming to be from FSB’s fraud department; scammers even disguise these communications to appear to be coming from an FSB phone number. Fraudsters falsely claim that a suspicious transaction has occurred on your account, then try to trick you into revealing your online banking credentials—such as your username, password, one-time PIN, and/or full credit or debit card details including the 3-digit security code—under the pretense of helping stop the fraud. They then use the stolen information to access your account and either make a payment to themselves or carry out unauthorized card transactions.

Security Checkpoint

Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts and calls from scammers pretending to be their bank, a loved one, the government or law enforcement — and the problem is only growing. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission’s report on fraud estimates that American consumers lost a staggering $12.5 billion to scams and other fraud in 2024 — an increase of 25% over 2023!

Scams aren’t so scary when you know what to look for. At First State Bank, we’re committed to helping you spot them as an extra layer of protection for your account. Click below, for tips on how to keep criminals at bay, including videos, an interactive quiz, and more.

How to Prevent Identity Theft

Identity theft can happen to anyone, but with a few smart habits, you can greatly reduce your risk.

Top Tips to Protect Yourself:

• Never share your personal login information like your social security number or account PIN over email, phone, or text unless you initiate the contact.
• For all accounts use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication when available, and make sure to change them regularly.
• Be cautious of phishing emails or texts asking for personal details and always verify links before clicking. Be sure to look out for typos, urgent language, and unfamiliar senders.
• Monitor your accounts regularly and report any suspicious activity immediately. Set up alerts for unfamiliar activity through online banking for added peace of mind.
• Always shred sensitive documents before throwing them away.
• Use secure networks and avoid banking over public Wi-Fi when possible.
• First State Bank will NEVER ask for your Online or Mobile Banking information. Someone asking you for any of this information is trying to scam you. If someone contacts you for this information, end the call, ignore the text, and contact FSB directly at 866-372-1275.

Stay informed to keep your accounts safe.

What to Do If You're a Victim of Identity Theft

If you think your identity has been stolen, act quickly: