Fraud Is Evolving: How to Help Stay One Step Ahead in 2026

Fraud isn’t slowing down, it’s getting smarter. Total fraud losses reported by older Americans ages 60 and over increased four-fold from 2020 to 2024, rising to over $2.4 billion, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The increase was driven by reports of large losses of over $100,000, often to investment scams, romance scams, or impersonators. Criminals are using advanced tactics like AI-generated emails and spoofed calls to trick even the most cautious consumers. At Opportunity Bank of Montana, we believe prevention starts with awareness. This guide will help you understand the risks, spot warning signs, and take proactive steps to protect your financial future. 

Fraud doesn’t just cost money, it can damage your credit, compromise your identity, and create stress that lasts for months. The good news? Most fraud can be prevented with the right habits and tools. 

Fraudsters are no longer lone actors, they’re often part of organized crime rings using sophisticated technology. Some even deploy artificial intelligence to mimic voices or write convincing emails. Tactics may include: 

Fraudsters use many tricks, but these are a few common types to watch for: 

Phishing & Smishing - Fake emails or texts that look legitimate but aim to steal your login details. They often create urgency, like claiming your account is locked, to pressure you into clicking a malicious link. 

Account Takeover – Criminals try to gain access to your account using stolen credentials, often purchased on the dark web. Once inside, they may transfer funds out of the account. 

Card Fraud & Skimming - Unauthorized use of your debit or credit card. Skimmer devices placed on gas pumps or inside card readers may capture card details without you noticing. 

Check & Payment Fraud - Altered checks or fraudulent transfers. Even paper checks can be manipulated, and online payment scams are on the rise. 

Here are practical tips to help keep your accounts secure: 

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) - Adds a second layer of security beyond passwords. Even if your password is stolen, MFA can block unauthorized access. 

Use Strong Passwords or Passkeys - Avoid reuse and consider a password manager for extra protection. Passkeys are even stronger. 

Don’t Trust Urgent Messages - Never click on suspicious links, verify through official channels. Banks will never ask for sensitive information via email or text. 

Turn On Real-Time Alerts - Get notified of transactions immediately to help catch fraud early. Most banking apps allow you to customize alerts for withdrawals, deposits, and login attempts. 

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly - Review statements and report anything unusual right away. Early detection is key to minimizing damage. 

Secure Your Devices - Install antivirus software, keep your operating system updated, and avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions. 

Act fast: 

Remember, Opportunity Bank of Montana will never call or email you asking for your personal information or payment details. If you ever receive a suspicious message claiming to be from us, please contact your local branch. 

Fraud can happen to anyone — and that’s exactly why talking about it matters. Scammers don’t care how smart, cautious, or tech-savvy you are; they rely on emotional manipulation, urgency, and distraction to slip past your defenses. That’s why slowing down is so important.  

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Whether it’s a suspicious email, a strange phone call, or a deal that seems too good to be true, take a moment to verify before you act. Protect your personal information, use strong passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. 

By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud throughout 2026, and beyond.