SECURITY ALERTS

In a current text scam, fraudsters send text messages or make phone calls to customers claiming to be from First Merchants. Fraudsters may try to create panic by claiming to alert customers to fraudulent activity.

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has created an urgent need for the most up-to-date information, which can make it difficult for users to ensure they are clicking on reliable resources. Situations like this can play to a fraudster’s advantage. Malicious activity related to COVID has been seen coming through just about every channel: email, social media, text and phone messages, and misleading or malicious websites.

Unfortunately, fraud-related schemes associated with COVID-19 are on the rise, including a text scam. Fraudsters try to take advantage of times like this. Please be extra careful and aware.

It has come to our attention that there has been a merchandising payment system data breach that occurred at several Focus Brands’ restaurants between April and July 2019.

According to the 2019 AFP - Payments Fraud and Control survey report: 80% of organizations experienced Business Email Compromise (BEC).

Here are six tips to help you avoid becoming a victim in Cyberspace this holiday season for both home and at work.