September 2024

You receive a text message with a job offer that pays hundreds of dollars a day for doing remote work. It might sound tempting, but here’s the catch: they ask you to text them your Social Security number. Don’t share it. It’s a scam.

Scammers send texts and emails and communication thru the WhatsApp pretending to offer remote jobs for positions like online data specialists. They promise they’ll pay up to $600 a day, but the company hiring is a total mystery. The text only says the job’s age requirement and asks for a valid Social Security number. Before you act, know this: not only is the job not legit, but if you send your information, the scammer can use it to steal your identity and create serious problems for you.

Here’s advice to help you deal with unexpected texts that could lead to job scams:

• Don’t click on links or respond to unexpected texts. If you think the text could be legit, contact the company using a web site or phone number you know is real — not the information in the text.
• Do some research. Scammers usually promise big rewards for little work, but don’t give a lot of information. Search online for the name of the company and words like “review,” “scam” or “complaint.” If you can’t find the company online, steer clear.
• Block unwanted texts. Scammers send texts designed to get your attention. Some phone settings and  call-blocking apps let you block unwanted texts so you don’t hear from scammers in the first place.

If you spot a text scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and forward it to 7726 (SPAM) or use your phone’s report “junk” option to delete and report it.

Did you give personal or financial information for a job that turned out to be a scam? Go to IdentityTheft.gov to report it and get a recovery plan.

Did you know that Bath State Bank offers various types of Visa credit cards? Whether you are looking for cash rewards or points, our adult, secured card (for those fixing credit), young adult, business, community or farm credit cards might fit your needs. Choosing the right credit card is easier than ever.

Whether you want to pay down balances faster, maximize cash back, earn rewards or begin building your credit history, we have the ideal card for you! No matter which card you choose, you'll enjoy important features like:

• Convenient and Flexible Purchasing Power.
• Accepted at millions of locations worldwide
• Mobile purchasing capability for added convenience
• Zero Fraud Liability.* You won’t be liable for fraudulent purchases
• when your card is lost or stolen
• Cardmember Service available 24 hours a day/365 days per year
• Plus much more

Bath State Bank partners with Elan to offer VISA options. APPLY today or LEARN more about our options.

Card ownership and credit limit amount are subject to credit approval by Elan Financial Services.

Bath State Bank will conduct a core system update on Sat., Sept. 7th from Noon until at least 4 p.m. Our system, including online banking/Bank by Mouse, mobile deposit and bill pay, will be out of service temporarily for the core update. We are sorry for any inconvenience.

SCAM ALERT!

Bath State Bank is reporting a TEXT SCAM happening this morning that customers and noncustomers are receiving. Please do NOT click on any text link. Please do NOT call the number. 

Our staff will NOT text you regarding your account. If you receive a text message, please delete it. You know our staff. You know our phone number. Check your statement, newsletter or phonebook if you don't have our number.

In addition, phone numbers can be spoofed. We will NEVER ask you for your personal information. When in doubt, hang up and call our number. Do NOT push redial on your phone.

How to Avoid A Scam!

• Don’t click on links in unexpected emails or text messages. Scammers send emails and text messages that look like they’re from your bank or a government agency, but are designed to steal your money and your personal information. Don’t click on any link, and don’t pass it on to others. Simply delete the message.

• Don’t trust your caller ID. Your caller ID might show the government agency’s real phone number or even say “Social Security Administration,” for example. But Caller ID can be faked. It could be anyone calling from anywhere in the world. Even Bath State Bank’s phone number can be spoofed. When in doubt, HANG UP and call the number you know listed on your statement, our web site or in the phone book.

• Don’t give your financial or other personal information to someone who calls, texts or emails and says they’re with your bank or a government agency. If you think a call or message could be real, stop. Hang up the phone and call directly to a number you know is correct.

• Don’t wire money, send cash or use gift cards or cryptocurrency to pay someone who says they’re with the government. Scammers ask you to pay these ways because it’s hard to track that money, and almost impossible to get it back. They’ll take your money and disappear.