CCB Fraud Education Series: Phishing & Text Scams – What to Watch For and How to Stay Protected

At CCB, we believe that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you have when it comes to protecting your finances. As part of our ongoing fraud education series, we’re taking a closer look at phishing and text scams-two of the most common ways fraudsters try to gain access to your personal and financial information.

What Are Phishing & Text Scams?

Phishing scams typically come in the form of emails or text messages that appear to be from a trusted source-like your bank, a government agency, or even a company you regularly do business with.

These messages may:

  • Ask you to click a link
  • Prompt you to “verify” account information
  • Urge you to reset a password

While they may look legitimate, one click can give scammers access to sensitive information like login credentials, account numbers, or personal identification details.

What Are Impostor Scams?

Impostor scams go a step further by creating a sense of urgency and trust. In these cases, a scammer pretends to be someone you know or an organization you trust.

Common examples include:

  • Someone posing as a government official demanding immediate payment
  • A utility company threatening service shutoff unless you act quickly
  • A “grandchild” or loved one claiming to be in trouble and needing money right away

These scams often rely on panic and pressure, hoping you’ll act before you have time to think.

How to Identify a Scam

While scams are becoming more sophisticated, there are still red flags to watch for:

  • Urgent or threatening language (“Act now or your account will be locked”)
  • Unexpected messages asking for personal or financial information
  • Suspicious links or email addresses that don’t match the company they claim to be from
  • Requests for payment in unusual ways, such as gift cards or wire transfers

If something feels off, trust your instincts-it’s always better to pause and verify.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Finances

At CCB, your security is our priority. Here are simple steps you can take to stay protected:

  • Never click on links or attachments from unknown or unexpected messages
  • Do not share personal or banking information via email or text
  • Verify requests directly by contacting the organization using a trusted phone number or website
  • Enable account alerts to monitor activity in real time
  • Keep your passwords strong and unique, and update them regularly

And remember-CCB will never ask you to provide sensitive information through unsolicited emails or text messages.

When in Doubt, Reach Out

If you receive a message that seems suspicious or if you think you may have been targeted by a scam, contact your local CCB branch right away. We’re here to help you take the right steps to secure your accounts and prevent further issues.