Fraud Prevention Tips: How to Spot and Stop Scams

Fraud attempts are becoming more sophisticated every day. At Village Bank, your financial security is just as important as your financial goals. By learning how to recognize scams and taking simple steps to protect your accounts, you can be the first shield against fraud. 

Why Fraud Awareness Matters 

Scammers thrive on urgency. Their goal is to make you act quickly: clicking a link, sharing a password, or confirming sensitive information before you have time to think. 

Your awareness, paired with Village Bank’s secure technology, is the strongest defense against fraud. Together, we can help keep your money and personal information safe. 
 

Common Banking Scams to Watch For

1. Phishing Emails 

Fraudsters send emails that look legitimate but include harmful links or attachments. These messages often request personal information or use fear-based language to get you to act fast. 

2. Smishing (Text Message Scams) 

Scammers send fake text alerts claiming there’s unusual activity on your account, urging you to “verify” by clicking a link or replying. 

3. Vishing (Phone Call Scams) 

A caller may pose as your bank, using urgency or threats to pressure you into giving up personal details. 

4. Social Media Scams 

Fraudsters create fake accounts or send direct messages pretending to be someone you know, often pushing too-good-to-be-true offers or malicious links.  

Red Flags in Any Scam: unexpected links, urgent requests, threatening language, or demands for sensitive information. 

Fraud Prevention: What To Do If Something Feels Off 

• Pause before acting. Scammers rely on urgency to push you into mistakes. 

• Don’t click suspicious links or attachments. 

• Hang up if pressured for private info. Then, contact Village Bank directly using the number on your bank statement or our Contact Us page 

How Village Bank Helps Protect You 

While awareness is your best defense, Village Bank provides advanced fraud protection tools to help secure your accounts: 

• Card Controls: Instantly turn your debit card on or off, set spending limits, and receive real-time alerts. 

• eStatements: Keep statements out of the mailbox and in your secure online banking. 

• Mobile Banking with Alerts: Monitor your transactions 24/7 and spot unusual activity quickly. 

These tools put more control in your hands, making it easier to prevent fraud before it happens. 
 

Protect Your Accounts with Village Bank 

Fraud prevention isn’t just about technology, it’s about awareness and action. By staying alert to scams and using Village Bank’s secure services, you can protect your money, your accounts, and your peace of mind. 

If you receive a suspicious message or call, don’t respond. Reach out to Village Bank directly through our Contact Us page or by using the number on your bank statement.