Protect Yourself from "Smishing": The Latest Phone Scam Targeting Banking Customers

What You Need to Know About the Latest Phone Scam

At CNB Bank & Trust, your financial security is our top priority. We've recently become aware of a dangerous new scam technique called "smishing" that the FBI has warned is targeting mobile phone users nationwide. We want to ensure our customers have the information they need to protect themselves.

What is "Smishing"?

"Smishing" is a form of phishing that uses SMS text messages rather than emails to trick you into sharing sensitive information. The term combines "SMS" (Short Message Service) and "phishing."

These scammers send text messages that appear to come from legitimate sources—like your bank, government agencies, or well-known companies—with urgent messages designed to make you act quickly without thinking.

How the Scam Works

The latest smishing scam works like this:

  • You receive a text message claiming to be from a trusted organization (like CNB Bank & Trust)
  • The message typically creates urgency, claiming suspicious activity on your account or that your account has been locked
  • It includes a link or phone number and urges you to click or call immediately
  • If you interact with the link or call the number, scammers will attempt to steal your personal and financial information

Red Flags to Watch For

Be on alert for text messages that:

  • Claim to be from CNB Bank & Trust but use unusual phone numbers
  • Create a sense of urgency ("Act now!" or "Immediate action required")
  • Contain spelling or grammatical errors
  • Ask for personal information like account numbers, passwords, or Social Security numbers
  • Include suspicious links (often shortened URLs)

How to Protect Yourself

Follow these guidelines to stay safe:

  • Never click on links in unexpected text messages, even if they appear to be from CNB Bank & Trust
  • Don't call phone numbers provided in suspicious text messages
  • Contact us directly using the official phone number on your card or our website if you receive a concerning message
  • Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) to report them to your carrier
  • Keep your phone's software updated with the latest security patches
  • Enable two-factor authentication on your CNB Bank & Trust accounts

Our Commitment to You

At CNB Bank & Trust, we will:

  • NEVER ask for sensitive information via text message or email
  • NEVER send links asking you to verify your account information via text
  • ALWAYS use secure, encrypted channels when we need to communicate sensitive information
  • CONTINUOUSLY monitor for threats and update our security protocols

What to Do If You Think You've Been Targeted

If you believe you've fallen victim to a smishing attempt:

  1. Contact CNB Bank & Trust's Customer Service Department at 866-342-2620.
  2. Change your online banking passwords
  3. Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity
  4. Report the incident to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov

Stay Informed

Scammers are constantly developing new tactics. Follow our blog and social media channels for the latest updates on security threats and tips to keep your financial information safe.

Remember, staying vigilant is your best defense against these types of scams. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your local CNB Bank & Trust branch.

CNB Bank & Trust is committed to helping our customers protect their financial information and maintaining the security and integrity of their accounts.

This information is provided as a service to our customers. For more information about online security or to report suspicious activity, please contact our Customer Service department.

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