Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – Jonesboro Right Now reached out to local banks to find out new trends when it comes to cybersecurity and protection against scams, as tactics evolve.
Leaders with First Community Bank and Arvest Bank said they have seen an increase in more sophisticated scams, such as AI-assisted and video call scams. In these cases, scammers use technology to mimic voices or create fake video calls that appear legitimate.
“These scammers are reaching out to you; they’re unsolicited, you’re usually not expecting it,” said Terri Coleman, sales coordinator for Arvest Bank – North Arkansas. “And they’re wanting to set that up, initiate a time to set up a video; they can do it through Zoom. What they’re basically after is they want to watch you sign on to your banking account and get your banking credentials.”
More common scams include phishing scams delivered via text or email that appear to come from legitimate companies, bank employees, law enforcement, and more. These messages will usually create a sense of urgency or make it appear that there is a problem with a person’s account.
“The most important step is to remain cautious and skeptical of unexpected messages, calls, or requests for personal information. Customers should never share account numbers, online banking credentials, or one-time passcodes. It’s also important to verify requests independently by contacting a trusted phone number or visiting a local branch. Keeping devices updated with security software and regularly monitoring account activity are also key protective measures,” said Jennifer Wyatt, vice president, information security risk officer for First Community Bank.
Both banking officials said additional protection factors, such as call screening, two-factor authentication, and using strong and unique passwords, should be used.
Other protective measures include avoiding public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, setting up account alerts, and limiting personal information shared on social media. Regular account and banking statement reviews are also recommended.
Coleman noted that scams and fraud do not exclusively affect older people. As scams advance, younger people are being targeted as well.
“Elderly [people], they target those individuals because they typically have more funds, and they may not be as tech savvy and things like that,” Coleman said. “But what we are hearing and seeing is, that is that even though that is a target group that they will go after, young people too, are definitely falling for these scammers.”
If you or a loved one is a victim of a scam, contact your local bank immediately, both Coleman and Wyatt advised.
“The sooner we are notified, the better chance we have to help limit potential losses,” Wyatt said.
Passwords should be changed, and accounts should be closely monitored. The incident should be reported to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). A report can be made to the FTC here.
The Arkansas Attorney General’s office also has tips online on common scams and ways to protect oneself. Click here to learn more.
“Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, which makes education and awareness more important than ever,” Wyatt said. “When in doubt, reach out to your local bank team. We are always here to help protect our customers and their financial well-being.”
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