Fraud Prevention

In 2024, the most commonly used password in the United States was “secret,” followed by “123456” and “password,” according to NordPass, a provider of cybersecurity and password management tools for individuals and businesses. Because passwords are a primary line of defense against identity theft, using weak or recycled passwords like these makes it easy for …

Investment scams, known as “Pig Butchering,” have become increasingly common. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans reported losing $5.7 billion to investment scams in 2024 and victims lost more than $9,000 on average. The term “pig butchering” refers to the agricultural practice of fattening pigs before slaughter, demonstrating how scammers “fatten” their …

Tech support scammers try to steal money and sensitive information by tricking individuals into believing their computer or device has a serious issue, such as a virus or system failure. Here are five things know about tech scams in 2025. Scams are evolving with AI. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed many industries, but unfortunately, it …

The FBI and other federal government agencies are warning consumers about a “Gold Bar” government impersonation scam that has bilked Americans out of millions of dollars. bankESB is aware of several cases of this scheme taking place locally. We’re providing this Fraud Alert to help you remain on-guard and protect yourselves. How The Scam Works …

Did you know that older adults lost more money to fraud in 2024 than any other age group? The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that victims in their 60s lost more than $1.18 billion to fraud! Most of that was through imposter scams, investment scams, and romance scams. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and …

Have you ever received an urgent text message or email from your boss that required immediate attention? Most people have, which is why fraudsters are posing as your boss to steal money or sensitive information about you or your company. What is a boss impersonation scam? The scam begins with a simple text message, claiming …

Cybercrime is on the rise and with it are evolving methods that fraudsters use to steal from you. Phishing, smishing, and vishing are common scams that try to steal your money, personal info, or identity. Phishing is when fraudsters pose as a company you do business with or trust, like your bank, credit card company, …

April is financial literacy month and the perfect time to learn how to better manage your money and stay safe from scammers, especially when using convenient payment tools like Zelle®! Zelle® is a convenient way to send and receive money with friends, family, and others you trust. However, scammers often use Zelle® because money is …

The FTC reported that between 2000 and 2024, reports of fraud involving businesses nearly tripled and losses grew from $90 million to $501 million. Last year’s AFP® Payments Fraud and Control Survey Report showed that 80% of organizations were victims of payment fraud attacks or attempts in 2023. And, wire transfers were the most vulnerable …

Tax season is nearing its halfway point! As you gather what you need file, be on guard against tax scammers who could try to steal your refund or your personal information! At bankESB, we want to help protect you. Here’s some info on the latest tax scams and how to protect yourself.  What is a …