Fraud Education Center
Staying informed is one of the best ways to stay protected. We're here to help you recognize red flags and act with confidence.
Fraud Red Flags
Scams often share common traits. Knowing what to watch out for may help you avoid them.
Pause and Evaluate
Small steps can make a big difference. These simple habits can help you protect your accounts and personal information.
Verify the Source
- Don’t respond directly to unexpected messages asking for information.
- Contact your local branch or visit our official website instead of using links or numbers provided in the message.
- Remember: Fraudsters often impersonate trusted institutions—even Opportunity Bank of Montana—through phone calls, texts, emails, and fake apps.
Use Tools That Can Help Keep You Safe
- Enable two-step verification on your accounts for added security.
- Consider using a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords.
- Keep your contact information up to date so we can reach you quickly if needed.
- Review your accounts regularly in Digital Banking to help spot unusual activity early. Consider setting up account alerts on transaction activity or debit card activity.
Report Anything Suspicious
- If you think someone is trying to access your account or personal information, contact your local branch immediately.
- We’ll guide you through next steps and help secure your accounts.
Pause Before You Act
- Don’t respond to unexpected texts, emails, messages, or calls asking for personal or financial details or requesting payment.
- Fraudsters rely on urgency—take your time to verify before making decisions.
Stay alert, stay secure. If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out to us directly. Opportunity Bank of Montana will never ask for your personal information or account details via text, email, or phone.
We're Here to Help
If you believe your personal or account information has been compromised, we’re ready to assist you. Acting quickly may help minimize risk and protect your accounts.
Contact Us Immediately
- Call your local Opportunity Bank branch immediately. The sooner we know, the faster we can help secure your accounts.
Review Your Accounts
- Check your recent account activity in Digital Banking and report anything unfamiliar. We’ll work with you to resolve any unauthorized activity.
Update Your Security
- Change your passwords and enable two-step verification on your accounts. Our team can guide you through these steps.
If something doesn’t feel right, reach out—we can walk you through next steps and get you the help you need.
A Few Common Types of Fraud and Scams
Many people encounter scams at some point. Leaning what they look like can help you respond with confidence. Awareness is one of your best defenses.
Account takeover happens when criminals gain unauthorized access to your account—often using stolen credentials purchased on the dark web or obtained through phishing. Once inside, they can transfer funds, change account details, or lock you out entirely.
How to Spot Account Takeover:
- Unexpected Login Alerts: Notifications for sign-ins from unfamiliar devices or locations.
- Changes to Account Information: Email, phone number, or password updates you didn’t make.
- Unfamiliar Transactions: Transfers or payments you didn’t authorize.
- Locked Access: You’re suddenly unable to log in to your account.
What to Do:
- Act Fast: Contact Opportunity Bank immediately to secure your account.
- Reset Credentials: Change your password and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Monitor Accounts: Review recent transactions and report anything suspicious.
Protect Yourself:
- Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
- Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or texts.
- Regularly review account activity and set up alerts for unusual transactions.
- Remember: Quick action can help limit damage. If something feels off, contact us right away.
Card fraud occurs when someone uses your debit or credit card without authorization. One common method is skimming—where criminals place hidden devices on gas pumps or inside card readers to capture your card details without you noticing.
How to Spot Possible Card Fraud & Skimming:
- Unexpected Transactions: Charges you don't remember making, even for small amounts.
- Unexpected Declines: Your card is declined even though funds are available.
- Damaged, Altered, or Loose Card Readers: A reader that looks bulky, crooked, or doesn't sit flush, or keypads that don't feel right.
- Damaged Seals or Tampering: Broken seals, mismatched colors, or parts that don't seem to match the rest of the machine.
- Unusual Requests: Being asked to swipe multiple times or use unfamiliar machines.
What to Do:
- Act Quickly: Report unauthorized transactions to Opportunity Bank immediately.
- Lock Your Card: Use Digital Banking to turn your card off if you suspect fraud.
Protect Yourself:
- Review transactions regularly for unfamiliar charges. Set up account alerts for purchases or declines.
- Inspect card readers for loose parts or anything unusual before inserting your card.
- Use chip or contactless payments when possible—they’re harder to skim.
- Enable transaction alerts in Digital Banking for real-time monitoring.
- Avoid using ATMs or fuel pumps in poorly lit, isolated, or unattended areas.
Remember: Staying alert at the point of payment can prevent fraud. If something looks suspicious, choose another machine or pay inside.
Check and payment fraud involves criminals altering checks, creating counterfeit versions, or initiating unauthorized transfers. Paper checks can be manipulated, and online payment scams are increasingly common—putting both your money and identity at risk.
How to Spot Possible Check & Payment Fraud:
- Altered or Missing Details: Changes to payee names, amounts, or signatures on checks, or smudged ink, mismatched fonts or missing security features.
- Unfamiliar Transfers: Payments or withdrawals you didn’t authorize.
- Requests for Unusual Payment Methods: Gift cards, wire transfers, or third-party apps.
- Pressure to Act Quickly: Fraudsters often create urgency to bypass verification.
- Overpayment: Someone sends a check for more than agreed and asks for a refund, or being asked to deposit a check and send money back is a major red flag.
- Changes to Payment Instructions: Last-minute updates to wire or ACH details may signal fraud.
- Requests for Secrecy: Being told not to talk to your bank or anyone else is a red flag.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t approve suspicious transfers or send checks without verification and pause before sending irreversible payments like wires.
- Wait: Wait for final settlement before spending funds from a deposited check.
- Report: Contact Opportunity Bank immediately if you notice unauthorized activity.
- Secure: Stop payment on compromised checks and monitor your accounts closely.
Protect Yourself:
- Use secure payment methods when possible.
- Enable account alerts for transfers and withdrawals.
- Review statements regularly for unfamiliar transactions.
- Never share banking details with unknown contacts.
Fraudsters may pretend to be a loved one in trouble—claiming they need urgent help for an emergency, legal issue, or travel problem. They use emotional pressure to convince you to send money quickly, often through hard-to-trace methods.
How to Spot a Family Member Scam:
- Urgent Requests for Money: They claim an emergency and insist you act immediately.
- Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency are major red flags.
- Limited Contact: They avoid phone or video calls and insist on messaging only.
- Emotional Manipulation: They play on fear or guilt to push you into sending funds.
What to Do:
- Pause: Don’t send money right away.
- Verify: Contact the family member directly using a trusted phone number or method.
- Report: If you suspect fraud, notify local authorities and file a report the Federal Trade Commission.
Protect Yourself:
- Always confirm a person’s identity before sending money.
- Be cautious of urgent requests that bypass normal communication.
- Never share banking information or personal details without verification.
Imposter scams occurs when someone pretends to be a trusted organization—such as your bank, the IRS, a local official, or Medicare—to trick you into sharing personal or financial information.
How to Spot an Imposter Scam:
- Unexpected Contact: Someone reaches out claiming to be from your bank, the IRS, law enforcement, or another trusted organization without prior notice.
- Urgent Problems: They say your account is locked, you owe money, or you’re in legal trouble—panic is part of their plan.
- Requests for Information: They ask for account numbers, passwords, PINs, security codes, or Social Security numbers.
- Spoofed Caller ID or Emails: Messages may look official, but details like misspellings, odd phrasing, or unfamiliar phone numbers are red flags.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t provide personal or financial information to unexpected calls or messages.
- Verify: Hang up and call the organization using a known, official phone number.
- Don’t Click Links: Avoid opening attachments or clicking links in unsolicited messages.
Protect Yourself:
- Know the Rules: Government agencies will never demand payment over the phone or via gift cards.
- Stay Calm and Verify: Take time to confirm before acting on urgent requests.
- Never Share Sensitive Information: Social Security numbers, banking details, and passwords should never be given to unknown contacts.
- Remember: Scammers rely on fear and urgency. If something feels off, pause and verify before you act.
Fraudsters pitch investments with “guaranteed” high returns and little to no risk—often through text, social media, or cold calls. If they pressure you to invest quickly, ask you to move money to unfamiliar platforms, or refuse to provide proper documentation, it’s probably a scam.
How to Spot an Investment Scam:
- Guaranteed or Unusually High Returns: Legitimate investments carry risk; “no risk, quick profit” is a red flag.
- Pressure to Act Fast: Urgency like “limited spots” or “today only” is often used to stop you from verifying the offer.
- Unregistered Offerings or Unlicensed Sellers: Scammers avoid official filings and won’t provide verifiable credentials.
- Vague or Complex Strategies: If you can’t clearly understand how the investment makes money, be cautious.
- Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for crypto, wire transfers, or gift cards often signal fraud.
- Social Media or Messaging App Pitches: Many scams involve criminals building trust over time, often through friendly or romantic conversations, before convincing someone to invest money or share funds, then disappearing once the money is gone.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t send money or share financial details.
- Delete: End communication and document the interaction.
- Protect Yourself: Verify the investment and the seller through official channels before doing anything.
Protect Yourself:
- Research independently – use trusted sources; don’t rely on materials provided by the promoter.
- Be Skeptical of “Guarantees”: If returns sound too good to be true, they probably are.
- Consult a Professional: Before investing, consider speaking with a specialist.
Received a call, text, email, or social media message promising a high-paying job with little effort? If they ask you to send money to apply, secure the position, or cover expenses, it’s not a job—it’s fraud.
How to Spot a Job Offer Scam:
- Upfront Payment Requests: Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay up front for applications, training, or equipment.
- Unrealistic Pay: If the wage seems high for minimal work, that’s a major red flag.
- Poor Communication: Vague job descriptions, pressure to act quickly, or messages with poor grammar may signal fraud.
- No Interview Process: Real jobs require interviews and employment verification—not instant offers.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t reply or engage.
- Delete: Remove the message immediately.
- Report: Notify the platform or authorities if possible.
Protect Yourself:
- Research the company before applying.
- Use official job boards or trusted websites.
- Never share personal or financial information with unknown contacts.
Received a message claiming you’ve won a lottery or sweepstakes—even though you never entered? If they ask for payment or personal details to “release” your winnings, it’s almost certainly a scam.
How to Spot a Lottery or Sweepstakes Scam:
- Unsolicited Prize Notifications: If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win.
- Upfront Payment Requests: Scammers often claim “taxes,” “processing fees,” or “delivery charges” are due. They may even send you a check to cover these costs, instructing you to deposit it and forward payment to someone else. The check is fake, and when it bounces, you’re left paying out of pocket.
- Requests for Personal Information: They want banking details or Social Security numbers to steal your identity.
- Pressure and Secrecy: Claims that you must act quickly or keep the win confidential are red flags.
What to Do:
- Stop: Do not send money or share personal details.
- Delete: Ignore and remove the message immediately.
- Report: File a complaint with local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission.
Protect Yourself:
- Verify Before You Trust: Check official sweepstakes rules and contact the company directly.
- Never Pay to Claim a Prize: Legitimate contests cover all fees.
- Guard Your Personal Information: Don’t share sensitive details with unknown contacts.
- Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Phishing and smishing are tactics where fraudsters send fake emails or text messages that look legitimate—often pretending to be your bank or another trusted organization. Their goal is to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information like login credentials, account numbers, or security codes.
How to Spot Phishing & Smishing:
- Urgent Language: Messages claim your account is locked or compromised to create panic.
- Suspicious Links or Attachments: URLs may look official but contain subtle misspellings or extra characters.
- Requests for Sensitive Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for passwords or PINs, via email or text.
- Generic Greetings: “Dear Customer” instead of your name can signal a scam attempt.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t click links or download attachments from unexpected messages.
- Verify: Contact your bank or service provider directly using official websites or published phone numbers.
Protect Yourself:
- Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Regularly monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
- Keep your devices updated with the latest security patches.
Fraudsters create fake profiles on dating sites or social media to build an emotional connection. Once trust is established, they often request money—claiming emergencies, travel expenses, or medical bills. These schemes can lead to significant financial loss and emotional harm.
How to Spot a Romance Scam:
- Requests for Money: Any request for funds—whether for an emergency, travel, or medical needs—is a red flag.
- Fast-Tracked Love: They profess love quickly or push for an intense relationship early on, often mirroring your interests perfectly.
- Avoiding In-Person Meetings: There’s always an excuse for why they can’t meet face-to-face.
- Far-Fetched Stories: Claims of being overseas for work, military deployment, or stuck in a foreign country are common tactics.
- Investment Offers: Scammers may suggest investing in cryptocurrency, gold, or other precious metals or gemstones as part of the scheme.
- Moving Off-Platform: They quickly ask to switch communication away from the dating site or social platform to text messages or other private messaging apps.
What to Do:
- Stop: Do not send money or share financial information.
- Block: End communication and block the person.
- Report: Notify the dating platform or social media channel. File a report with local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission.
Protect Yourself:
- Be cautious with anyone who asks for money online.
- Never share account or personal information with someone you haven’t met in person.
Social platforms and online marketplaces make buying and selling easy—but they’re also prime targets for fraud. Scammers may pose as sellers offering unbelievable deals or as buyers with fake payment confirmations. Their goal? To steal your money, personal information, or goods.
How to Spot an Online Marketplace Scam:
- Too Good to Be True: Prices far below market value are a major warning sign.
- Pressure to Act Quickly: Fraudsters create urgency, so you don’t have time to think.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Asking for payment in gift cards, wire transfers, or through third-party apps.
- Fake Payment Proof: Screenshots or emails claiming payment was made when it wasn’t.
- Overpayment Trick: If you’re selling an item, scammers may send a check for more than the asking price and ask you to forward the extra amount to a “shipping company” or third party. The check is fake, and when it bounces, you’re out the money.
What to Do:
- Stop: Don’t send money or ship items without verified payment.
- Delete: End communication with suspicious buyers or sellers.
- Report: Flag the listing and report the user to the platform.
Protect Yourself:
- Use secure payment methods recommended by the platform.
- Meet in person in a safe, public location whenever possible.
- Never share bank account details or personal information with strangers.
- Remember: If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Tech support fraud often begins with a pop-up warning, email, or phone call claiming your computer is infected or your account is compromised. Fraudsters pose as trusted companies and pressure you to pay for unnecessary services, "lifetime subscriptions" (which don't exist), or grant remote "support" access to your device.
How to Spot Tech Support Fraud:
- Unexpected Pop-Ups or Alerts: Messages claiming your computer has a virus or security threat, creating urgency.
- Unsolicited Calls or Messages: Someone reaches out to “fix a problem” you didn’t know existed.
- Urgent or Threatening Language: Designed to create panic, suggesting your accounts or files are in danger.
- Requests for Remote Access: They ask you to install software so they can take control of your device.
- Pressure to Pay: You’re told to purchase “support services” or “security upgrades,” often using gift cards or wire transfers.
What to Do:
- Stop: Never click links or allow remote access into your device from an unexpected request.
- Delete: Close pop-ups and ignore suspicious emails or messages.
- Protect: Never share passwords, financial details, or install unknown software.
Protect Yourself:
- Use Official Support Channels: Contact your device manufacturer or service provider directly through their verified website.
- Install Trusted Security Software: Keep your systems and apps up to date.
- Be Cautious of Unsolicited Alerts: Pop-ups claiming urgent issues are often fake.
Fraud Response & Resources
Taking quick action early can help limit the impact of fraud. Use these trusted resources to report issues and learn more.