HOULTON – Katahdin Trust is urging individuals and businesses across Maine to remain alert as reports of fraud and scam attempts continue to increase statewide. Scammers are increasingly posing as well-known companies, financial institutions or even bank employees, using highly convincing phone calls, text messages and emails to trick people into sharing sensitive information or to send money.
“These scams can happen to anyone,” said Andrew Putnam, Katahdin Trust senior vice president, chief information officer. “Fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, using real company names, employee names and even spoofed caller IDs. The most important thing people can do is slow down, pause and verify before responding.”
In an effort to help prevent fraud and protect the community, Katahdin Trust is sharing practical guidance that can be helpful no matter where you do your banking. The bank encourages individuals and businesses to review and share these tips with employees, coworkers, friends and family members.
Before you respond, ask yourself these seven questions. If the answer is “yes” to even one, stop and think — it could be a scam:
Am I being asked to send money or share sensitive information? This includes account numbers, login credentials, passcodes or payment verification. Even if the request appears to come from a legitimate source.
Did the message come out of the blue? Unexpected calls, emails, texts, social media messages or pop-ups are common red flags.
Am I being asked to pay in an unusual or specific way? Requests involving gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps or unfamiliar websites are warning signs.
Am I being told to keep it a secret or coached on what to say? Fraudsters often instruct victims to lie or withhold information from others, including their family members, friends and their bank.
Am I being pressured to act immediately or threatened? Urgency and fear are classic scam tactics (such as threats of arrest, account freezes or legal action).
Is someone asking to remotely access my computer or accounts? Legitimate organizations will not ask you to log in or share access while on the phone.
Does something just feel off? Trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, stop and verify.
Katahdin Trust reminds the public that legitimate financial institutions will never ask for passwords, full login credentials, or one-time passcodes via unsolicited calls, texts, or emails.
What to do: Pause before responding to unexpected requests; verify independently by contacting your bank or the company using a known, trusted phone number; talk with a trusted colleague, friend or family member if you’re unsure; and report suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
“Our goal is awareness and prevention,” Putnam added. “By staying informed and sharing this information, we can help protect ourselves, our coworkers, and our communities from becoming victims.”
For more fraud prevention resources, visit KatahdinTrust.com or contact your local Katahdin Trust branch.
