Once the alert is updated in our fraud system, you can attempt the transaction again, usually within 5 – 10 minutes of the initial call/text/email to validate activity.
Security Center
First Merchants Bank Security Center
Helping you prosper with account protection, alerts, and information to keep your money and identity safe.
Your finances are the foundation of your livelihood – which is why First Merchants takes protecting our customers from fraud so seriously. So, we put together this comprehensive security hub with the latest information and tools you need to stop scammers.
Current Alerts
Fraudsters are always active, so it's good to stay vigilant. Our current alerts help keep you up-to-date on the latest scams and identity theft trends.
Current AlertsPreventing fraud on your accounts is a team effort.
How we protect you
We use a multi-layered approach, blending fraud detection technology with the expertise of trained fraud-prevention specialists to keep you and your finances safe.
Learn MoreHow to protect yourself
Scams are scary, but there are practical steps you can take to reduce risk and protect your finances.
Learn MoreBusiness Cybersecurity
Fraud is an inherent risk when it comes to owning a business – but there are steps you can take to protect yourself, your employees, and your business. Our Treasury Management team is here to help you learn how to identify and mitigate risks.
Business Fraud Hub
FAQs
Transactions that we have identified as potential fraud, including transactions outside your normal activity, trigger the alerts. It's important that you respond to these alerts to avoid unnecessary account disruption.
If we have a mobile phone number on file for you, we'll send a text alert first. If we do not receive a response, our system sends an automated voice call asking you to confirm if authorizations are valid or unrecognized. If you select “Not Recognized,” the call is transferred to an agent to confirm the fraudulent transaction(s). If there is no response to the text or voice call, an email is sent requesting that you confirm the transactions are valid.
We have already included you in these enhanced services as part of our fraud protection services. However, in order to receive Text Fraud Alerts, we must have a mobile number on file for you. If we don't have a mobile number on file, we'll try calling or emailing you instead. To update your contact information and ensure your correct mobile number is on file, contact Customer Service at 1.800.205.3464 or Treasury Solutions at 1.866.833.0050.
Possibly. The majority of suspected fraud accounts will be blocked, however, some lower risk items may not be declined.
Yes, though please keep in mind that it could take 5 – 10 minutes for a block to be removed in some situations.
Emails will be sent 24 hours a day. Texts will be sent from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. in your local time zone. Calls will be sent from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in your local time zone. Texts and voice calls pending from the night before will be triggered the following morning at the applicable time noted above.
Simply respond back to the SMS text alert with the word STOP. Remember: U.S. consumers who have service through AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile will not be charged message or data rates for our fraud alerts.
We are unable to send text or phone calls internationally, but please make sure your email address is current, as we can still email you.
No, both consumer and business cardholders will receive Fraud Alerts.
