Fraud and Security Resources















Protecting You from Fraud

Fraud and scams are becoming more sophisticated every year, and criminals often target bank customers through phone calls, text messages, emails, and social media.

At Citizens State Bank, protecting our customers and their financial information is a top priority. This page serves as a central resource for learning how to recognize scams, protect your personal information, and report suspicious activity.

If something doesn’t feel right - pause and contact us before taking action.

Remember: Citizens State Bank will never ask for your online banking password, debit card PIN, or secure access codes by phone, text, or email.

 

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Someone creates urgency or panic to pressure you into acting quickly.

  • You receive an unexpected call, text, or email asking for personal or financial information.

  • Someone asks you to transfer money, purchase gift cards, or send cryptocurrency to solve a problem.

  • The message includes links asking you to log into your bank account.

  • A caller claims to be from your bank but asks for passwords, PINs, or verification codes.

Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations like banks, government agencies, or businesses in order to steal money or personal information.





Bank Impersonation Scams

Fraudsters pretend to be from your bank and claim there is suspicious activity on your account. They may ask you to verify transactions or provide login credentials.

What to do:
Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or official website.


Text Message Scams (Smishing)

You may receive a text message that appears to be from your bank asking you to confirm a charge or click a link.

What to do:
Do not click links or reply. Contact your bank directly.


Phone Scams (Vishing)

Fraudsters may call and impersonate trusted organizations, such as your bank, to trick you into sharing sensitive financial or personal information.

What to do:
Never share:

  • Online banking passwords

  • Secure access codes

  • Debit card PINs

  • Full card numbers


Romance Scams

Scammers build relationships online and then ask for money or financial help.

Warning signs include:

  • Declaring strong feelings quickly

  • Asking for money for emergencies

  • Avoiding meeting in person


Overpayment Scams

You receive a check for more than the agreed amount and are asked to send the difference back.

The original check later turns out to be fraudulent.













What To Do If You Suspect Fraud?

Contact Citizens State Bank Immediately

If you believe your account information has been compromised, contact us right away.

Report Fraud to Federal Agencies

Reporting scams helps law enforcement detect patterns and stop criminals.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Report scams or identity theft: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov

The FTC collects reports of fraud and uses them to help investigate and stop scams.



Fraud FAQs

No. We will never call and ask for your online banking password, debit card PIN, or secure access codes.
Do not respond or click links. Contact us directly using the phone number on our website or your debit card.
Recovery depends on the type of fraud and how quickly it is reported. Always contact the bank immediately if you suspect fraud.







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