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News and Alerts

Listed below are the alerts that St. Mary’s Bank has recently received or experienced. For more information, please call our Member Contact Center at 1-888-786-2791.

REMEMBER! St. Mary's Bank will never ask for unsolicited personal information.
  • Never share card PIN, online banking user ID/password, or any other access method with anyone including joint owners or anyone claiming to be St. Mary’s Bank.
  • Never respond to unverified text/email/calls or click links. Call St. Mary’s Bank directly at 1-888-786-2791 if you have concerns of unauthorized transactions or inquiries.
  • Never lie to your financial institution when asked about taking money out of your account. We’re here to protect you no matter what the fraudsters or your “friends” say!
  • Never allow anyone to remotely access your device by entering keys/commands or go to a website and download software…even if they threaten you, say you’ll lose money or go to jail.
 

January 3, 2024 - New Check and Deposit Fraud Examples

To keep St. Mary's Bank members and the greater public aware of the risks, please review our latest fraudulent check examples. This type of fraud is continuing to affect members of St. Mary's Bank and other financial institutions.

New Examples of Fraudulent Deposit Checks 

This check was received as sales commission for a job.

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Another fraudulent check received (unknown reason).

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This check was received for work promoting social media influencers.

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This check was sent by an actual friend of the recipient, but the sender's account was compromised.

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This check was received in the mail as lottery winnings.

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Another method of check deposit fraud is when someone takes a photo of a check. These are often sent digitally for remote deposit. Remember that image copies or photos of checks that have been emailed or otherwise received for deposit are non-negotiable and not valid nor accepted for deposit.

Below are Examples of Pictures of Checks Denied for Remote Deposit

This is a photo of a check that was received so that an outside company could use the receipient's photos.

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This photo of a check was sent by an actual friend of the recipient, but the sender's account was compromised.

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November 17, 2023 - Fraudsters Still Favoring Fake Check Scams

The fake check deposit scam continues to affect members of St. Mary's Bank and other financial institutions. In continuing to keep St. Mary's Bank members and the greater public aware of the risks, we've included the latest fraudulent check examples below.

New Examples of Fraudulent Deposit Checks 

This check was received for an online sale. 



This check was received as part of a fake sweepstakes scam. It came with a falsified Publisher's Clearing House letter. 



Another method of check deposit fraud is when someone takes a photo of a check. These are often sent digitally for remote deposit. Remember that image copies or photos of checks that have been emailed or otherwise received for deposit are non-negotiable and not valid nor accepted for deposit.

Below are Examples of Pictures of Checks Denied for Remote Deposit

This is a photo of a check that was received from a friend, allegedly for work.



Another fraudulent photo of a check received.



This member's online account was taken over, which resulted in this fraudulent image of a check.

 

November 13, 2023 - Tech Support Scams

We are aware of an on-going tech support scam of incidences where people are receiving popups, clicking fake links, or calling fake numbers for Amazon, Microsoft, etc.
 
Avoid tech support scams. Legitimate companies do NOT call, text, or email you saying there's a problem with your computer. Legitimate popup warnings will NOT ask you to call a number or click a link. See more information from the Federal Trade Commission below or call us at 1-888-786-2791 if you clicked a link or gave out information.

How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Tech Support Scams | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)


October 24, 2023 - National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Reminds Us to Stay Vigilant Against Fraudsters

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an initiative started in 2004 that promotes the importance of cybersecurity in today’s interconnected online world. This collaborative effort between the government and industry aims to raise awareness, encourage actions to reduce online risks, and discuss cyber threats on a national and global scale. Ensuring your safety and privacy on the internet is essential!

Here are some effective measures that you can take to protect yourself online:

  1. Use strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts, and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
  2. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.
  3. Keep your software and operating system up-to-date with the latest security patches.
  4. Be cautious of suspicious emails, links, or attachments, especially from unknown senders.
  5. Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated.
  6. Review your privacy settings on social media and other online platforms to ensure you are sharing information only with trusted individuals or groups.
  7. Educate yourself about common online scams and phishing attacks to avoid falling victim to them.
  8. Never share your personal banking credentials! If in doubt, call us at 1-888-786-2791, or call the number on the back of your card.

Below are New Examples of Fraudulent Deposit Checks

This check was received in the mail and thought to be a student loan assistance check.



This check was received for an online job. The receiver of this fake check was supposed to buy supplies and then send the rest of the money elsewhere.



The receiver of this fake check was supposed to wrap his car with an advertisement and use this money to the "wrapper."



Remember that image copies or photos of checks that have been emailed or otherwise received for deposit are non-negotiable and not valid nor accepted for deposit.

Below are Examples of Pictures of Checks Denied for Remote Deposit

This is a photo of a check that was received from an Instagram "friend."



This person gave their username and password to a fraudster for an online "payday loan." Legitimate companies will NEVER ask for online banking access!

 

This person gave their username and password to receive "grant money." Do not EVER give out your online banking credentials!



This is a photo of a check received via email for an online sale.



September 21, 2023 - Fake Check Deposit Scam Persists with Attempts Continuing to Involve Remote Deposits

The fake check deposit scam continues to affect members of St. Mary's Bank and other financial institutions. According to the Federal Trade Commission, these fraudulent checks can look like business or personal checks, cashier's checks, money orders, or electronically delivered checks. You can learn more about this scam at the FTC Consumer Advice website.

Please be aware that anyone saying your accounts are compromised and that you have to move your funds out of your account is always a SCAM. 

Below are New Examples of Fraudulent Deposit Checks 

This check was received for a "car wrapping job" with instructions to deposit the check, purchase gift cards, and then provide the codes from the back of the gift cards.



This member was selling a motorcycle online and received a check including extra funds above the sale price to send to a "shipping agent."



This check was presented as a foreclosure refund, but the check was not expected, nor was it from a known creditor.



Another method of check deposit fraud is when someone takes a photo of a check. These are often sent digitally for remote deposit. Remember that image copies or photos of checks that have been emailed or otherwise received for deposit are non-negotiable and not valid nor accepted for deposit.

Below are Examples of Pictures of Checks Denied for Remote Deposit

This is a photo of a check that was deposited remotely.



This photo of a check was received for an artwork commission.



This picture of a check was remotely deposited after a member gave out their Online Banking credentials (username, password, and security code).



This digital image of a check, received from a Snapchat "friend," was remotely deposited.

 

August 8, 2023 - Fake Deposit Check Scam

We are aware that members of St. Mary's Bank, as well as other financial instutitions, have received fake checks to deposit that are a part of an ongoing scam. According to the Federal Trade Commission, these checks can look like business or personal checks, cashier's checks, money orders, or electronically delivered checks. You can learn more about this scam at the FTC Consumer Advice website.

Please be aware that anyone saying your accounts are compromised and that you have to move your funds out of your account is always a SCAM. 

Below are examples of Fraudulent Deposit Checks that have been identified.

This check was received with instructions to withdraw the funds and then send to a charity.

Deposit Checking Scam

This check was provided for an online job in order to purchase supplies ahead of time by sending funds to the supplier.

Fake Check Scam

Check was received for selling something online, with instructions to send the overpayment money somewhere else.

Fake Scheck Scam



January 30, 2023 - Spoofing Trends

What is Spoofing?
Spoofing is a type of scam in which a fraudster disguises an email address, display name, phone number, text message, or website URL in an effort to convince an individual they are connecting to a trusted source. Spoofing usually involves changing just one letter, number, or symbol of the company name or within the information so it looks valid at a quick glance.

Fake Text Messages
We are aware of fake text messages claiming to be from St. Mary’s Bank. The message asks you to confirm a charge and click a link which is likely malicious or may bring you to a fake site trying to steal banking credentials.

SAMPLE SPOOF TEXT:

This is happening at other financial institutions and not targeted solely to St. Mary’s Bank. To keep yourself safe, please do not click on any links from unknown numbers or that you have not confirmed by calling us directly.
  • When logging onto your online banking, we strongly encourage you to use our mobile banking app.
  • We strongly encourage you to type our website directly (www.stmarysbank.com), or use a saved bookmark.
If in doubt, call us at 1-888-786-2791, or call the number on the back of your card.

Google Search Guidance Reminder
We are aware of a scam where fraudsters are directing users to a fake St. Mary’s Bank website in an effort to obtain online banking credentials.

Fraudsters are using Google ads to direct users to fake banking websites to then capture online banking name/password along with email address/password. As a reminder, we ask you to pay attention to Google search results for slight misspellings or requests for additional unusual information during login.

Remember, we will NEVER ask for your email address and password as part of logging in. Using the secure mobile app is highly recommended and please contact us at 1-888-786-2791 if you encountered this experience or have unauthorized transactions on your account.

SPOOFED AND REAL WEBSITES AND ADS:




July 22, 2022 — Would You Spot the Scam?

Consumers are being contacted and told that their PC or account is compromised and that they must withdraw cash or send funds to a “trust” account or others to protect their funds. They are instructed to lie to their bank about what the withdrawal or wire is for.
 
  • If anyone tells you to lie to your financial institution for any reason, it's a scam
  • Your funds are always protected at your financial institution. 
  • Never withdraw cash, buy gift cards, buy Bitcoin, or give account access to anyone based on a call, email, or text. 

April 21, 2022 — Beware of Pop-up Scams

Fraudsters are using scare tactics to trick you into clicking on pop-up ads. For example, the pop-up may indicate that you have an unauthorized charge on your account, and then advise you to call a number or visit a website to take action.
 
  • DO NOT type commands given by the person on the phone
  • DO NOT log-in or grant access to your online banking at their request
  • DO NOT buy gift cards, withdraw cash, or wire funds for any reason

February 15, 2022 — Google Search Guidance

Be aware fraudsters are using Google ads to direct users to fake banking websites to then capture online banking name/password along with email address/password. As a reminder, we ask you to pay attention to Google search results for slight misspellings or requests for additional unusual information during login. Using the secure mobile app is highly recommended and please contact us at 1-888-786-2791 if you encountered this experience or have unauthorized transactions on your account.


February 2, 2022 — Scammers Want You to Be Their Money Mule

Beware of scams involving online employers, online friends, etc. asking you to receive money (via check or electronic deposit) with requests to move the money elsewhere (e.g. via cash withdrawal, cash apps, gift cards). 

Check out this AARP video to learn more: Scammers Want You to Be Their Money Mule

November 18, 2021 — Fake St. Mary's Bank Online Ad and Website

We are aware of a scam where fraudsters are directing users to a fake St. Mary’s Bank website in an effort to obtain online banking credentials. They are displaying ads on the Google network using the St. Mary’s Bank name. The link in their ads brings users to a fake website.

Please use caution before clicking links. Verify that the name and URL match and there are no typos or other inconsistencies.




November 12, 2021 — Text Message Scam

We are aware that other local credit unions are being targeted with fake texts/emails noting unauthorized transactions. Fraudsters then ask for your card information, your online banking logon, security questions, your member/account number or other personal information (such as date of birth, SSN). They may also attempt a logon to your online banking and ask for the code that is sent to you. NEVER give out any online banking information especially any security code sent via text or email. We will NEVER ask for this information so please contact us immediately if you have any concerns.  If you receive any calls or texts about fraud, call the number on the back of your card, block your card through your online banking, telephone banking, or call St. Mary’s Bank directly. 

November 2, 2021 — Spoofed Emails Appearing to be from St. Mary's Bank

We are aware that fraudsters are creating emails with a spoofed sending address that appears to be from St. Mary’s Bank. The emails reference security updates, upcoming payments, and billing. As a reminder, never click on any links or open attachments within unexpected emails. Hover over the link to validate the correctly spelled location or contact the sender at a known phone number or website to confirm its validity. See example below.

Email Spoof Fraud Alert

August 11, 2021 — Text Message Scam

We have received a report of possible fraudulent text messages that appear to have been sent on behalf of St. Mary’s Bank. St. Mary’s Bank has not initiated these text messages, so please remember to be cautious of clicking any links within unsolicited text or email messages. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 1-888-786-2791. See example:



June 16, 2021 — Fraud Alert

Fraudsters are texting/calling posing as employees of St. Mary’s Bank claiming you have an unauthorized transaction. Fraudsters then ask for your card information, your online banking logon, security questions, your member/account number or other personal information (such as date of birth, SSN). They may also attempt a logon to your online banking and ask for the code that is sent to you. NEVER give out any online banking information especially any security code sent via text or email. We will NEVER ask for this information so please contact us immediately if you have any concerns.  If you receive any calls or texts about fraud, call the number on the back of your card, block your card through your online banking, telephone banking, or call St. Mary’s Bank directly. 


January 5, 2021 — Stay Protected Against Stimulus Check Scams

With stimulus checks and electronic deposits being received, scammers are trying their best to steal funds. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
  • The number one flag of a scam is when you receive money with instructions to send/return some of the money (such as buying gift cards, sending a wire transfer, or mailing cash).
  • The government will never email, call, or text you to claim your funds (don’t click on any links or open any attachments). Do not respond and delete it immediately.
  • Never, for any reason, give out your online banking login information. Scammers will often ask you to verify your account or personal information. No legitimate government employee will ever ask for this.
  • Scammers are even mailing out official-looking checks. If you were qualified to receive your payment via direct deposit but still received a paper check, do not deposit the check. First, contact the IRS to confirm, as this is likely a scam.
For the latest payment updates, visit www.irs.gov.


November 25, 2020 — Holiday Online Safety Alert

‘Tis the season for hackers, scammers, and online thieves. Being aware of your online safety is very important and essential, especially around the holidays.
Below are 3 tips from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to keep in mind before and after you shop.

Tip 1: Check your devices
Before making any online purchases, make sure the device you’re using to shop online is up-to-date. Next, take a look at your accounts and ask, do they each have strong passwords? And even better, if two-factor authentication is available, are you using it?

Tip 2: Only shop through trusted sources
Think about how you’re searching online. Are you searching from home or on public Wi-Fi? How are you finding the deals? Are you clicking on links in emails? Going to trusted vendors? Clicking on ads on webpages? You wouldn’t go into a store with boarded up windows and without signage; the same rules apply online. If it looks suspicious, something’s probably not right.

Tip 3: Use safe methods for purchases
If you’re going to make that purchase, what information are you handing over? Before providing personal or financial information, check the website’s privacy policy. Make sure you understand how your information will be stored and used.

To learn more, visit www.cisa.gov/shop-safely.


May 28, 2020 — Taking Control in Uncertain Times: COVID-19 Fraud Prevention
 
With the COVID-19 crisis, many fraudsters are taking advantage of our fears, creating fake job and donation sites as well as sending emails that appear to be from the CDC, WHO, or other organizations.

Join St. Mary's Bank's Director ERM & Compliance, Shirley Bhutto, for a pre-recorded webinar and Q&A to educate yourself about the latest scams and understand how and why they happen.

 

May 26, 2020 — Free Credit Reports Every Week
 
The Federal Trade Commission has posted a blog article "Credit Reports are now free, every week," reporting that the three national credit reporting agencies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—will provide free weekly credit reports via the www.AnnualCreditReport.com portal through April 2021. The Commission advised the three reporting agencies are making the free reports available to allow Americans who may be anxious about their financial well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
May 18, 2020 — StayConnectedNH.org

This website is an initiative of the New Hampshire Financial Abuse Specialty Team (FAST) to keep NH protected by staying connected to trusted resources. The mission at FAST is to increase public awareness of financial exploitation with the goal of mitigating risk of exploitation and protecting our state’s vulnerable populations during these challenging times.

Stay connected, stay well-informed, and stay prepared by utilizing StayConnectedNH.org's trusted resources.

April 20, 2020 — Coronavirus (COVID-19): Scam Alert

In addition to our prior scam notice on 4/1/20, more COVID-19 scams are being reported, including fake cures and tests as well as offers of “guaranteed” government loans or additional funds “found” to assist consumers. Be aware that:
  • COVID19 small business loans do not require any form of pre-payment or fees.
  • If you receive a call about a loan you actually applied for, you should verify an application number, amount of loan, or date/time of loan to be sure it’s really the bank/credit union you applied with (and not a fraudster trying to get your private information).
  • Do not click on any links in texts or emails that are from unknown sources or claim to have test results, cures, additional stimulus money, etc. The links likely include malware or direct you to a site to capture your private information.
  • No legitimate person/company will ever contact you to request your online banking credentials to make a stimulus deposit or any other type of deposit to your account. NEVER give out your online banking credentials. 
If you have concerns about your security and privacy, please contact our Member Contact Center at 1-888-786-2791. 
 
April 1, 2020 — Coronavirus (COVID-19): Scam Alert
 
With the COVID-19 crisis, many fraudsters are taking advantage of our fears, creating fake job and donation sites as well as sending emails that appear to be from the CDC, WHO, or other organization.
 
Some important things to remember and be aware of:
  • Never give out your online banking credentials. No legitimate company will ever ask for this info, and you risk fraudulent deposits or losses for which you could be liable.
  • Be very wary of emails or texts asking to click on links or open attachments.
  • Any job that deposits or sends you money and asks you to withdraw or send the funds elsewhere is likely a scam. Recent scam jobs include receiving funds to act as liaison for donations, buying items from grocery/pharmacy to test price gouging, assisting with bitcoin purchases, and telling you to keep the info secret.

February 18, 2020 — Recognizing a Social Security Scam

Scammers are aware that people are catching on to their attempts, so they’re coming up with new ways to convince Social Security beneficiaries that their frauds are legitimate.

Read Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's blog to learn what to watch for so you can protect yourself and others from Social Security scams.

October 29, 2019 — Calls Targeting SMB Members

St. Mary’s Bank is aware of a scam where fraudsters are calling members (with a local number displaying in caller ID) claiming they are from St. Mary’s Bank concerning fraudulent charges to their debit card. The fraudsters are requesting a member to provide their debit card number, expiration date, and PIN, as well as their Online Banking user name and password.
 
Regardless of where calls, emails or texts originate from, follow the steps below to protect yourself from potential scams.
 
  • Never provide your Online Banking logon information to anyone. Once you provide this access, you may be liable for losses! Even a joint owner on your accounts should have their own logon.
  • Never provide private information to any caller (your debit/credit card number, PINs, social security number, etc.) unless YOU initiated the call to a company well known to you.
  • Never send money based on a phone, email or text request unless you can positively confirm this is someone well known to you in person.
  • Never use *72 before dialing a phone number as this is a method of forwarding your actual phone number to the fraudster’s phone.
 
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our Member Contact Center at 1-888-786-2791.
 

July 26, 2019 — Equifax Data Breach Settlement

You may have heard on the news about the recent settlement over the Equifax breach of September 2017 that exposed 147 million people’s private information. If you were affected by this breach (e.g. bought credit monitoring, paid for credit freezes, took time to resolve ID theft, etc.) you may be eligible for 4 years of free monitoring or if you already had monitoring in place for the next 6 months, you may be eligible for $125 payment. If you incurred costs (e.g. placing freezes or paying for an accountant) or time spent resolving unauthorized charges you may submit those as well.

You can go to the site below to see if your information was impacted (you will need to enter your last name and last 6 digits of your SSN), as well as a link to file a claim.

Equifax Data Breach Settlement
 

View more Security Center news in our News/Alerts Archive
 

If you have any concerns about your security and privacy, please contact our Member Contact Center at 1-888-786-2791.