Fraud Squad Update: ATM Fraud, Skimming, and Digital Scams
Fraud trends change fast, but one thing always stays the same: scammers are continually looking for new ways to steal card numbers, passwords, personal information, and money.
That’s why Farmers & Merchants Bank created the Fraud Squad. Our team is here to help customers recognize, report, and respond to fraud with confidence.
Unfortunately, anyone can fall victim to fraud, and doing so doesn’t mean you weren’t careful. Scammers use pressure, fear, and urgency to get people to act quickly, so the best thing you can do is pause, look for red flags, and ask for help when something feels off.
Here are a few fraud trends we’re watching right now:
ATM Fraud and Skimming
ATM skimming is still a concern. Skimming happens when criminals place a hidden device on or inside an ATM, card reader, gas pump, or payment terminal. These devices can steal card information. Some criminals also use hidden cameras or fake keypads to capture PINs.
The FBI says skimming can happen at ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, and fuel pumps. Criminals can use the stolen data to make fake cards or take money from accounts. The FBI also estimates skimming costs financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year.
Before you use an ATM, take a quick look. Does the card slot seem loose? Does the keypad look raised or unusual? Is anything taped, scratched, bulky, or out of place? If something doesn’t look right, don’t use it.
It’s also smart to cover the keypad when you enter your PIN. That simple habit can help protect you from hidden cameras.
Fake Fraud Alerts
Scammers often pretend to be from a bank’s fraud department. You might get a text that says there was a suspicious charge on your account. If you respond, the scammer may call you and ask for your password, PIN, card number, or a one-time code.
Never share those details.
The FDIC advises people to slow down when they get a message that feels alarming and contact their bank directly using a trusted phone number, such as the number on the back of a debit or credit card.
FMB may contact you about account activity, but we will never ask for your password, PIN, or secure access code. If you’re unsure, call us directly.
Phishing and Data Theft
Phishing messages can come by email, text, phone call, pop-up, social media message, or fake website. They may look like they’re from a bank, retailer, medical provider, phone company, or another well-known business.
The FBI says phishing and spoofing are used to trick people into giving away sensitive information, including passwords and bank PINs.
Watch for urgent messages and be careful with links. Don’t trust a message just because it has a familiar logo.
What to Do If Something Feels Off
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And if someone is pressuring you to act right now, that’s a warning sign.
Remember: Pause. Don’t click. Don’t share personal information. Don’t call the number in a suspicious message.
Instead, contact Farmers & Merchants Bank directly.
The Fraud Squad has two main goals: protect our loyal customers and stop fraud in its tracks. If you suspect fraud, call us at 402-761-7600 or visit your nearest branch. We’re here to help you take the next step.