10 Common Banking Scams and How to Avoid Them

Posted on July 6, 2026

As we begin the third quarter of 2026, our Family of Banks—The Citizens Bank of Swainsboro, Citizens Bank of Laurens County, and Bulloch First—would like to thank you for allowing us to serve your financial needs.

Whether you have been a valued customer for many years or have recently joined our banking family, we remain committed to providing information and resources that help you navigate today’s ever-changing digital world. Through our Quarterly Banking Bytes, we strive to keep you informed, educated, and better protected against emerging financial threats.

For this quarter’s edition, we have chosen to highlight “10 Common Banking Scams and How to Avoid Them.” Chances are that many of us have encountered one or more of these scams firsthand. Our hope is that by recognizing the warning signs and understanding the tactics fraudsters use, you will be better prepared to protect yourself, your personal information, and your hard-earned money.

After all, awareness is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against fraud.

10 Common Banking Scams and How to Avoid Them

In today’s digital world, criminals are constantly finding new ways to steal money and personal information. While technology has made banking more convenient, it has also created new opportunities for fraudsters to target unsuspecting consumers.

The good news is that knowing what to watch for can significantly reduce your risk. Here are ten common banking scams and practical ways to protect yourself.

1. Text Message (Smishing) Scams

Fraudsters send text messages that appear to come from your bank, claiming there is a problem with your account or a suspicious transaction.

Warning Signs

  • Urgent requests to act immediately
  • Links directing you to a website
  • Requests for passwords, PINs, or verification codes

How to Protect Yourself

  • Never click links in unexpected text messages.
  • Contact your bank using a verified phone number.
  • Do not provide personal information through text messages.

2. Impersonation Fraud

Scammers pretend to be bank employees, government agencies, law enforcement, or trusted companies.

Warning Signs

  • Pressure to act immediately
  • Threats involving account closures or legal action
  • Requests for confidential information

How to Protect Yourself

  • Hang up and call the organization directly using a trusted number.
  • Verify the caller’s identity before sharing information.
  • Remember that legitimate organizations will not pressure you into immediate action.

3. Gift Card Scams

Criminals convince victims to purchase gift cards and provide the card numbers as payment for taxes, fees, fines, or services.

Warning Signs

  • Requests to pay with gift cards
  • Demands for secrecy
  • High-pressure tactics

How to Protect Yourself

  • Never use gift cards to pay government agencies, utilities, or financial institutions.
  • Be suspicious of anyone requesting payment through gift cards.
  • Consult a trusted family member or friend before making unusual payments.

4. Tech Support Scams

Fraudsters claim your computer, phone, or online banking account has been compromised.

Warning Signs

  • Pop-up warnings claiming your device is infected
  • Unsolicited phone calls from “technical support”
  • Requests to install remote access software

How to Protect Yourself

  • Close suspicious pop-ups.
  • Never allow remote access to your device unless you initiated the support request.
  • Contact technology vendors directly through official channels if you believe you have a problem.

5. Fake Bank Calls

Scammers spoof your bank’s phone number to make it appear legitimate.

Warning Signs

  • Caller claims to be from fraud prevention
  • Requests for online banking credentials
  • Requests for one-time passcodes

How to Protect Yourself

  • End the call and contact your bank directly.
  • Never share passwords, PINs, or security codes.
  • Remember that your bank will not ask for your password.

6. Fake Check Scams

You receive a check and are instructed to deposit it and send a portion of the funds elsewhere.

Warning Signs

  • Unexpected checks
  • Requests to forward money
  • Promises of easy income

How to Protect Yourself

  • Do not spend funds from a suspicious check.
  • Verify the check before acting.
  • Remember that checks can be returned weeks after deposit.

7. Romance Scams

Scammers build online relationships and eventually ask for money.

Warning Signs

  • Refusal to meet in person
  • Frequent emergencies requiring financial assistance
  • Requests for wire transfers or gift cards

How to Protect Yourself

  • Be cautious when developing online relationships.
  • Never send money to someone you have not met.
  • Discuss concerns with trusted friends or family members.

8. Online Marketplace Scams

Criminals target buyers and sellers through online marketplaces and social media platforms.

Warning Signs

  • Requests to move conversations off the platform
  • Overpayments
  • Pressure for immediate payment

How to Protect Yourself

  • Use the platform’s secure payment methods.
  • Avoid sharing banking information.
  • Meet locally in safe, public locations when possible.

9. Account Takeover Scams

Fraudsters obtain your online banking credentials and gain access to your accounts.

Warning Signs

  • Unexpected password reset notifications
  • Unrecognized transactions
  • Locked account access

How to Protect Yourself

  • Enable multi-factor authentication.
  • Use strong, unique passwords.
  • Monitor account activity regularly.

10. Charity and Disaster Relief Scams

After natural disasters or major news events, scammers create fake charities to collect donations.

Warning Signs

  • Emotional appeals with urgent deadlines
  • Requests for wire transfers or gift cards
  • Little information about the organization

How to Protect Yourself

  • Research organizations before donating.
  • Donate through official websites.
  • Never feel pressured to contribute immediately.

General Tips for Staying Safe

Protect Your Personal Information

Never share:

  • Online banking passwords
  • PIN numbers
  • Security questions
  • One-time authentication codes

Monitor Your Accounts

  • Review account activity regularly.
  • Set up transaction alerts.
  • Report suspicious activity immediately.

Think Before You Click

  • Be cautious of links in emails and texts.
  • Verify websites before entering information.
  • Keep your devices updated and secure.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels suspicious, it probably is. Slow down, verify the request, and contact your bank directly.

We’re Here to Help

At The Citizens Bank of Swainsboro, Citizens Bank of Laurens County, and  Bulloch First, our Family of Banks is here to serve you and offer account protection to the best of our knowledge.  Unfortunately, we have witnessed the majority of these scams. Fraudsters continually develop new tactics, but awareness remains one of the strongest defenses. If you ever receive a suspicious phone call, text message, email, or payment request involving your accounts, contact us immediately before taking any action.

A few moments of caution can prevent a significant financial loss. Your security remains our top priority.