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— Q1 2026 Update —
Fraudsters are aggressively targeting taxpayers with IRS impersonation scams, fake tax preparers, and phishing emails. File early and verify all tax-related communications. Learn More
Call, text, or email to ask for your password, account number, verification code, or Social Security number.
Ask you to send or transfer money to an account you don't own.
Request payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
Pressure you to act immediately without time to verify.
Want to learn more about protecting yourself from scams? We offer free scam and fraud awareness seminars in the communities we serve. These interactive sessions cover the latest scam tactics, prevention strategies, and Q&A with fraud experts.
🔒 Verify Suspicious Calls
Hang up on unsolicited requests for account or personal information. Never share details with callers claiming to be from your bank.
📧 Recognize Phishing Attempts
Be cautious of emails, texts, or calls requesting information or containing links. When in doubt, contact the company directly using a number you trust.
💰 Confirm Payment Requests
Always verify payment instructions or changes through a separate channel. Call the person or business directly before sending money.
🔗 Avoid Unfamiliar Links
Don't click links or download attachments from unknown sources. Malicious links can install malware and steal your information.
🛡️ Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
Add extra security layers to your accounts with MFA and turn on account alerts whenever possible.
🔑 Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Update passwords every 6 months and never reuse them across accounts. Change immediately if you suspect unauthorized access.
💸 Test Before Large Transfers
When using P2P payment apps like Zelle® or Venmo, send a small test amount before transferring large sums.
Scammers constantly adapt their tactics. Here are the fraud schemes we're seeing most frequently right now.
Scammers pose as IRS agents via phone, email, or text, claiming you owe back taxes and demanding immediate payment. The real IRS never initiates contact by phone, email, or text about taxes owed.
✓ Hang up and call the IRS directly at: (800) 829-1040
Fraudulent tax preparers promise unrealistic refunds, charge excessive fees, or steal your information to file false returns and claim your refund before you do.
✓ Verify preparers at irs.gov/tax-professionals.
Fake emails impersonate employers, payroll services, or the IRS, requesting W-2 information or asking you to verify tax forms through malicious links that steal your data.
✓ Never click links in tax-related emails
Criminals file fraudulent tax returns using stolen Social Security numbers to steal refunds. You may not discover this until you try to file your legitimate return.
✓ File as early as possible to beat scammers
Services like Zelle® and Venmo are convenient but require extra caution since payments are instant and often irreversible. Follow these best practices to stay safe when using peer-to-peer (P2P) payment methods like Zelle® or Venmo.
What is Phishing? Phishing emails and text messages look like they’re from a company you know or trust. They may look like they’re from a bank, a credit card company, a social networking site, an online payment website or app, or an online store.
If you get an email or a text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, answer this question: Do I have an account with the company or know the person that contacted me?
If the answer is “No,” it could be a phishing scam. Visit our blog post on "How to recognize a phishing scam" to learn the commons signs of a phishing scam. If you see a phishing attempt, report the message and then delete it.
If the answer is “Yes,” contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real. Do not use the information in the email or text message. Attachments and links can install harmful malware.
Source: United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC.gov)
1st Security Bank participates in these American Bankers Association education initiatives. Explore these free resources for in-depth information on specific fraud threats. Both sites available in English and Spanish
The American Bankers Association's award-winning campaign helps consumers recognize phishing scams. Take their interactive quiz, watch educational videos, and learn what banks will never ask for.
Key Topics:
Check fraud has doubled since 2021. This ABA campaign explains the risks of paper checks and provides tips to protect yourself—or better yet, switch to safer digital payments.
Key Topics:
Need assistance or have any questions? Contact us, we're happy to help!