Essential Tips for Scam Awareness and Prevention: Insights from Farmers and Merchants Bank of Colby

Kinley from Farmers and Merchants Bank of Colby stopped in the station to do an on-air interview about Scam Awareness and Prevention. Let's took a look at what was discussed.

In today’s digital age, scams and fraud are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. At Farmers and Merchants Bank of Colby, understanding and preventing these scams is a top priority. In a recent conversation with Kinley from the bank, we gained valuable insights into how you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of fraud.

The Rising Threat of Scams

Scams are on the rise, and they are growing more complex by the day. A common tactic involves fraudulent emails or text messages that contain links or attachments. When individuals click on these links or open these attachments, they risk exposing their personal and financial information to scammers. This can lead to significant security breaches and financial loss.

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

One of the most effective ways to avoid falling victim to a scam is to be vigilant about the links and attachments you interact with. Always scrutinize unexpected communications for signs of fraud. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:

- Misspelled Words: Scammers often use names of well-known companies with minor misspellings to trick individuals into thinking the communication is legitimate.

- Suspicious URLs: Pay attention to the URLs in links. A slight variation from the genuine site’s URL can indicate a phishing attempt.

- Unusual Requests: Be wary of unsolicited messages asking for personal information such as your social security number or bank details.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you receive a suspicious email, text, or call, it's crucial to take immediate action:

1. Stop and Assess: Don’t interact with the message or link. Take a moment to evaluate its legitimacy.

2. Contact Your Bank: Reach out to your bank directly using a verified phone number or email address. Do not use contact information provided in the suspicious message.

3. Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like your social security number, account numbers, or passwords to unknown sources.

Farmers and Merchants Bank’s fraud department plays a critical role in monitoring and protecting customers from suspicious activity. They may contact you if they detect unusual transactions, but they will never ask for personal information. Instead, they will only verify specific transaction details to ensure your account's security.

How to Stay Safe

Here are a few additional tips to enhance your security:

- Be Cautious Online: Avoid entering your credit or debit card information on websites or social media platforms that you do not trust.

- Stay Informed: Regularly update yourself on the latest scam trends and preventive measures. Your bank can provide resources and support to help you stay ahead of fraudsters.

Contacting Farmers and Merchants Bank

Farmers and Merchants Bank of Colby is committed to helping you safeguard your financial information. Their main lobby is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, with drive-through service available from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. They are also open on Saturdays, with drive-through hours from 8 AM to 11 AM. For those using the Dillon’s location, hours are extended from 10 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 3 PM on Saturdays. You can reach the downtown location at 785-460-3321 and the Dillon’s location at 785-460-2559.

By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from the growing threat of scams. Remember, if you ever have doubts about the legitimacy of a communication, don’t hesitate to contact your bank. They are there to assist you and ensure your financial security.

Interview aired on our Good Neighbor Hour