As part of National Consumer Protection Week, March 6, 2025, marks National Slam the Scam Day, a crucial initiative to raise awareness about government imposter scams and other fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable individuals. Launched by the U.S. Social Security Administration and the Office of the Inspector General, this day reminds us of the importance of protecting ourselves from scammers who attempt to steal our personal information and finances.
Every year, scams cause billions of dollars in losses, with a significant portion of that amount attributed to government imposter scams. These scammers often impersonate agencies like the Social Security Administration (SSA), tricking people into handing over sensitive information or making fraudulent payments. By observing National Slam the Scam Day, we can learn how to recognize common scam tactics and take steps to protect our financial security.
Recognize Common Scam Tactics
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and their tactics are constantly evolving. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:
- Unsolicited contact: Be cautious when you receive unexpected calls or messages, especially from someone claiming to be from a recognized agency.
- Urgency and pressure: Scammers often push for immediate action, insisting that you pay or provide personal information right away.
- Untraceable payment methods: Be wary of requests for payments via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, as these are difficult to trace and offer little protection.
How Stone Bank Keeps You Safe
At Stone Bank, we take your financial security seriously. With National Slam the Scam Day upon us, it’s a great time to revisit the security features we offer to help you stay protected:
- Rock of Ages Checking Account: We offer a checking account specifically for seniors 62 and older, complete with free checks, a free safe deposit box for one year, and a competitive interest rate. We aim to help you manage your finances securely with these added benefits.
- Mobile Banking & Online Security Features: Our mobile banking app and online banking portal come equipped with advanced security features that protect your personal information and transactions. With features like real-time transaction alerts, secure logins, and the ability to lock your cards, Stone Bank ensures your finances are always secure.
- Multi-Factor Authentication: For added protection, we encourage our customers to enable multi-factor authentication on their Stone Bank accounts. This extra layer of security ensures that only you can access your accounts, even if your password is compromised.
- Fraud Alerts and Support: In the event of suspicious activity, we provide fraud alerts and work closely with you to resolve any concerns. Our dedicated customer service team is always here to guide you through any potential security issues.
Take Control of Your Financial Security Today
Now is the perfect time to safeguard your finances. If you’re 62 or older, open a Rock of Ages Checking account at Stone Bank and enjoy benefits like free checks, a complimentary safe deposit box for a year, and a great interest rate. Plus, with our Mobile App and Online Banking services, you can manage your money securely with features like multi-factor authentication and real-time alerts. Don’t wait—open an account today and take the first step toward a more secure financial future!
This information is for general education purposes only and not to be used as tax or legal advice. The opinions and recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of Stone Bank. Stone Bank nor any of their employees assumes any legal liability for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of this information. Stone Bank’s website may contain links to websites of other organizations that are no longer protected by our privacy policy or security practices