Mayfield authorities warn of new banking scam targeting local residents

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MAYFIELD, Ky. (KBSI) — Local authorities and financial institutions are warning residents about a new banking scam circulating in the area that targets customers by posing as bank representatives.

Officials say scammers are using spoofed phone numbers that make calls appear to come from a legitimate financial institution. The callers attempt to gain a victim’s trust before asking for sensitive information such as online banking usernames, passwords, PIN numbers or one-time security codes.

In some cases, scammers send follow-up text messages requesting login credentials or claiming the information is needed to verify identity or stop fraudulent activity.

Authorities say once criminals gain access to a victim’s online banking account, they often move money out using person-to-person payment services, which can transfer funds quickly.

Investigators also warn about a newer tactic where scammers tell victims their debit card has been compromised and that someone from a bank’s fraud department will pick up the card from their home.

In those cases, officials say a courier or rideshare driver may be sent to collect the card from a mailbox, often after business hours or on weekends when banks are closed.

Officials emphasize that legitimate banks will never ask for online banking credentials, request PIN numbers or send employees to retrieve a debit card from a customer’s home.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call or message is urged not to provide personal information and to contact their bank directly using the phone number listed on the back of their debit or credit card. Residents are also encouraged to report suspected scams to their bank and local law enforcement.

Authorities say sharing information about the scam can help prevent others from becoming victims.