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Notice: Temporary ATM Lane Closure – Eureka Branch

Our Eureka branch ATM lane will be unavailable for drive-up traffic November 4th–6th (weather permitting) due to scheduled maintenance.

Customers may still walk up to the ATM, and all other drive-up lanes will remain open and accessible during this time.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while this work is completed.

 

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🛡️ Spotting and Avoiding Online Loan Scams: A Guide for Bank Customers

Online loans offer convenience and speed—but they also attract scammers looking to exploit vulnerable borrowers. As your trusted financial partner, we want to help you recognize the warning signs, avoid falling victim, and know what to do if you've been scammed.

🚨 Red Flags of Online Loan Scams

Scammers often pose as legitimate lenders, using slick websites and persuasive tactics. Watch out for these common warning signs:

  • Requests for Online Banking Login:  It's a red flag if a lender asks for your online banking login information.

  • Guaranteed Approval Without a Credit Check Legitimate lenders always assess your creditworthiness. If someone promises approval regardless of your credit, it’s likely a scam.

  • Upfront Fees Before You Receive Funds Fraudsters may ask for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency before disbursing the loan. Real lenders deduct fees from the loan amount or include them in your repayment plan.

  • Pressure to Act Immediately Scammers create urgency to prevent you from thinking critically or doing research. Phrases like “limited-time offer” or “act now” are red flags.

  • Unprofessional Communication Poor grammar, generic email addresses, or lack of company contact details can signal fraud.

  • No Physical Address or Licensing Info Legitimate lenders are registered and regulated. If you can’t verify their credentials or location, steer clear.

✅ How to Avoid Loan Scams

Protect yourself with these smart practices:

  • Verify the Lender Check if the lender is registered with your state’s financial regulatory agency. Look for reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings.

  • Never Pay Upfront Refuse any request for payment before receiving your loan. Legitimate lenders don’t operate this way.

  • Use Secure Websites Look for “https” in the URL and avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links.

  • Read the Fine Print Review loan terms carefully. If details are vague or missing, walk away.

  • Consult Your Bank If you're unsure about a lender, ask your bank for guidance before sharing personal or financial information.

 

🆘 What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a loan scam, act quickly:

  1. Stop All Communication Cease contact with the scammer immediately.

  2. Report the Scam File a complaint with:

    • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): reportfraud.ftc.gov

    • Your state attorney general’s office

    • Your bank or credit union

  3. Protect Your Identity If you shared sensitive information, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus. Change your password, reset multi-factor authentication, and change security questions on your online account.

  4. Monitor Your Accounts Watch for unauthorized transactions and report them to your bank.

  5. Educate Others Share your experience to help friends and family avoid similar traps.

Staying informed is your best defense. If you ever feel uncertain about a loan offer, reach out to your bank—we’re here to help you make safe, confident financial decisions.

 

Fraud Education Resource Center

Stay proactive in being informed, aware, and prepared against fraud and scam activity.

Learn how to protect yourself

 

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