At Farmers State Bank, your security is our top priority. As technology advances, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals. One common method scammers use to access personal information is by pretending to be someone you trust—like your bank—and asking for sensitive information such as your password. That’s why we want to be clear: we will never ask you for your password via email, text, or over the phone.
Why Password Requests Are a Red Flag
Cybercriminals often use phishing tactics—fraudulent emails, texts, or phone calls that appear to be from reputable sources—to trick you into revealing your personal information. Asking for a password is a major red flag, and it’s a tactic commonly used in these scams. If you ever receive such a request claiming to be from Farmers State Bank, it’s a scam.
Remember: No legitimate organization, including your bank, should ever ask for your password via unsecured communication.
How We Keep Your Accounts Secure
We use multiple layers of security to help keep your information protected. This includes encrypted online banking systems, two-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring for suspicious activity. Learn more about how we keep your money safe in our cybersecurity blog post.
How You Can Stay Safe
Here are some steps you can take to help protect your personal information:
- Never share your password with anyone, even if they claim to be from the bank.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when available.
- Create strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts. Need help? Check out tips from the FTC on creating strong passwords.
- Watch for red flags like urgent messages, grammatical errors, and unfamiliar links or attachments.
- Report suspicious activity immediately by calling us at 641-439-2221 or visiting our Contact page.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Targeted
If you suspect you’ve received a phishing message or shared your credentials in error, please contact us right away. Acting quickly can help minimize potential damage.
We’re Here to Help
Protecting your financial information is a partnership. At Farmers State Bank, we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and tools to keep your accounts secure. Stop in or give us a call if you ever have questions—we’re happy to help.
