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Don't Fall for Fraud this Fall

Farmers Bank and Trust will host a fraud prevention luncheon with resources and tools that empower businesses and individuals to stay safe online with best practices to protect themselves. October kicks off a campaign as Farmers Bank recognizes National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

The event features Bobbi LaViolette, SVP Chief Operations Officer, Farmers Bank and Trust and Detective John Reynonlds from the Great Bend Police Department with instruction on effective methods to recognize common scams, red flags and techniques to protect yourself and your business.

The event will be held on October 29^th from 12 PM to 1PM with a light lunch served in the Farmers Bank and Trust Community Room located at 1614 Main Street. Please RSVP by October 22nd. Call 620-792-2411 or register here to reserve your seat.

Check Fraud Alert

We have received multiple reports of customers sending checks for payment to Discover that are being stolen, altered, and deposited to unknown individual's accounts. Please be cautious with all mailed checks. Monitor your statements and consider paying by electronic means when possible.

Practice Safe Checks

With check fraud more than doubling over the past decade, Kansas Treasurer Steven Johnson shares simple,

effective tips to help protect consumers—from using permanent gel pens to switching to digital payments.

La Crosse School Supply Drive

Thanks to the generous support of the community, along with Farmer’s Bank & Trust’s match, the LaCrosse branch was able to donate more than $1,400 worth of school supplies to USD 395 LaCrosse this year.

Local Preschoolers Visit Kinsley Branch

Local preschoolers learning about community helpers stopped by to learn how banks can keep their money safe until they are ready to use it. According to Branch Manager, Brad Venters, they discussed different sizes and shapes of money and enjoyed cookies because "they’re round like coins but taste better." They also talked about needs vs wants and all left with a 50-cent piece to help them start saving for those bigger items on their wants and needs list. They finished off the visit with pictures of “locking” them in the vault. Not all the kids were willing to get locked in.

CryptoCurrency Fraud

As reported by the FBI, Cryptocurrency fraud losses were up 45% in 2023 which resulted in more than $5.6 billion dollars in losses. See full Report Here.

The American Bankers Association in working in collaboration with the FBI and other federal agencies, released a new infographic warning consumers about the increasing threat of cryptocurrency investment scams.

Family Code Words

Tips for Financial Caregivers

It's important for caregivers to keep careful records. When acting as a financial agent, proper documentation is not only encouraged, but required. Get more tips for financial caregivers from the '@American Bankers Association' Foundation: https://aba.social/3SeDjKk
#SafeBankingForSeniors

#Older Americans Month

28th Annual Charity Coffee held in Great Bend

Thirty-six local charities received donations during Farmers Bank & Trust's annual charity coffee. This event celebrates the valuable work of local organizations to strengthen our community.