Avoiding Scams: 4 Essential Tips for Protecting Your Finances

by Allison Ryan
Mar 10, 2025

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, which represents a 25% increase over the prior year. (Read the Report Here)

Laptop with different scams in bubbles

We encourage everyone to remain vigilant with their personal information. Use the below tips to help you and your loved ones avoid fraud.

  1. FGB will never call you to ask for personal or account information.
    1. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be FGB, do not give any personal information out. Instead, hang up and call us directly.
    2. Only open texts from people that you know and trust. Don’t reply to a text from an unknown sender with personal details.
  2. Take an active role in monitoring your accounts for fraud.
    1. This can look like setting up account alerts or monitoring your bank statements monthly.
  3. First Guaranty Bank will never call you to ask you to send or wire money or purchase gift cards.
    1. Imposters can solicit you for money by impersonating authoritative entities like the IRS, local police, etc. often with a sense of urgency. This is a scam.
  4. Don’t send money to people you don’t know.
    1. This often shows up in Romance scams on dating sites or social media. Scammers will usually profess their love quickly and ask for money. Don’t fall for it!

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is! If you think you’ve been scammed or have questions about your account, reach out to your bank directly. 

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