Graves County deputies warn residents about new banking scam targeting locals

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

GRAVES COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — The Graves County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a new banking scam targeting local customers.

Authorities say scammers are using spoofed phone numbers to make calls appear as if they are coming from a legitimate bank. The callers then attempt to gain the victim’s trust before requesting sensitive information.

In many cases, scammers follow up with a text message asking for online banking usernames, passwords, PIN numbers or one-time authentication codes, claiming the information is needed to verify identity or stop fraudulent activity.

Once access is obtained, scammers may use person-to-person payment services to quickly transfer money from the victim’s account.

Officials say a newer tactic involves telling victims their debit card has been compromised and that a member of the bank’s fraud team will pick up the card from their mailbox. In some cases, a rideshare or courier driver is sent to retrieve the card, often without realizing they are participating in a scam.

Authorities say these incidents often occur after hours or on weekends, when banks may be closed.

Officials remind residents that legitimate banks will never ask for online banking credentials, PIN numbers or authentication codes, request customers transfer funds to protect their account or send employees to collect debit cards from homes.

Residents who receive suspicious calls or messages are advised not to provide personal or banking information, avoid clicking links in unsolicited texts and contact their bank directly using the number listed on their debit card.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted is encouraged to report the incident to their bank and local law enforcement.