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Fraud and Security

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PPP Loan Recipients Targeted by Fraudsters

Businesses that received funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) are being targeted by a new wave of scams. Banks nationwide are reporting an increase in attempts where fraudsters use publicly available PPP loan data to impersonate bank employees attempting to obtain online banking credentials. How the Scam Works: Scammers pose as your bank, often …

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The Dangers of AI in Financial Fraud: How to Protect Yourself

Imagine this: You’re at home, checking your bank account online. A pop-up message suddenly appears, claiming to be from your bank, Heartland Bank. It asks you to verify your identity by clicking a link or entering your personal information. The message looks so convincing—complete with logos, design and tone—that you act quickly. But by the …

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Protect Yourself from Crypto-Related Fraud and Investment Scams

Cryptocurrency is a growing trend, offering investment opportunities but also attracting fraudsters targeting unsuspecting individuals. At Heartland Bank, we want to help you avoid falling victim to fraud and scams. Here’s a look at the risks and how to protect yourself. The growing risk of crypto fraud. Crypto fraud usually begins with an enticing investment …

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Can You Spot a Phishing Scam?

Every day, people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts, and calls from scammers who impersonate others, such as bank employees. With online banking usage at an all time high, recognizing phishing red flags is more important than ever. The Federal Trade Commission’s report on fraud estimates that American consumers lost over $10 billion to phishing …

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Six Mobile Check Deposit Tips

Heartland Bank remains committed to keeping your personal and financial information safe. Data released earlier this year shows consumers lost nearly $8.8 billion to fraud in 2022, an increase of more than 30 percent over the previous year. To help you stay informed, we have compiled the following list of Six Mobile Check Deposit Tips: …

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Tax Time Scams to Look Out For

Tax time can be stressful enough without having to worry about scams. Unfortunately, tax season scams have been on the rise in recent years, particularly via phone and email. As a reminder, the IRS will NEVER: The IRS will always send you a bill via mail first. If you have received a bill or think …

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15 Tips to Keep Your Data Private

In our technology-centered world, keeping your personal information and finances safe can seem impossible. To better protect you, we’ve put together a quick guide with 15 tips to keep your data private and control who sees it. Finally, be sure to share this with family and friends to make sure they are taking the necessary …

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Seven Tips For Creating Stronger Passwords

You’re in the process of registering a new online account to make a purchase and have come to the point where it is asking you to provide a password for your newly created account. Passwords are your first line of defense against hackers which makes your next step, creating the new password, crucial to keeping …

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How To Spot Lottery Scams

It typically starts with a phone call, email or letter stating, “You’re a Winner!” We’re talking about “Lottery Scams” that, according to the most recent data from the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing $301 million to this kind of fraud. Here are some ways to spot a sweepstakes or lottery scam, courtesy of the …

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