Security Center

Stay Alert. Stay Informed. Help Protect What Matters.

Fraud and scams are constantly evolving, but knowing what to look for can make a big difference.

At First Bank Midwest, we're committed to helping you protect your accounts and personal information. Explore these tips and resources to recognize common warning signs, strengthen your online security, and know what to do when something doesn't seem right.

Know the Red Flags

Scammers often rely on urgency, fear, or confusion to get you to act before you have time to think. Be cautious when someone:

  • Pressures you to act or send money immediately.
  • Asks for passwords, PINs, security codes, or other sensitive information.
  • Sends an unexpected link or attachment.
  • Requests payment through an unusual method.
  • Tells you to keep a transaction or conversation secret.
  • Claims to represent your bank, a government agency, or another trusted organization and asks you to transfer money or provide sensitive information.

When something doesn't feel right, stop before you act.

Think Before You Click

Phishing attempts can arrive by email, text message, social media, or even through a phone call designed to appear legitimate.

Avoid clicking unexpected links or opening unfamiliar attachments. Don't rely solely on caller ID or the name displayed in a message, and never provide sensitive information in response to an unsolicited request.

If you're unsure whether a communication from First Bank Midwest is legitimate, contact us directly using a trusted phone number or visit one of our locations.

Protect Your Digital Banking

A few everyday habits can help strengthen your online security:

  • Use strong, unique passwords and keep them private.
  • Never share one-time passcodes or security codes.
  • Keep your devices, browsers, and apps updated.
  • Avoid accessing financial accounts over unsecured public Wi-Fi.
  • Review your accounts regularly and report unfamiliar activity.
  • Use account alerts and other available security features to help monitor activity.

Wire Fraud: Stop Before You Send

Wire transfers move money quickly and can be difficult to recover once the funds have been sent. Take extra care before authorizing any wire transfer.

Be especially cautious if someone pressures you to send money immediately, changes previously provided payment instructions, insists that a wire is the only acceptable payment method, or asks you to keep the transaction secret.

Whenever payment or wiring instructions change unexpectedly, verify the request using a trusted phone number you already have—not contact information provided in the suspicious message.

If you're uncertain about a wire request, stop and contact a First Bank Midwest team member before sending the funds.

Protect Yourself from Check Fraud

Checks can contain information criminals may use to commit fraud. Help reduce your risk by keeping checks secure, reviewing your accounts regularly, and using secure methods when mailing payments.

Consider digital payment options or Digital Banking Bill Pay when appropriate, and report lost or stolen checks or suspicious account activity as soon as possible.

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Concerned About Fraud or Suspicious Activity?

If you receive a suspicious call, email, or text claiming to be from First Bank Midwest—or notice activity you don't recognize—contact us right away.

Call 800-548-8138 or visit a First Bank Midwest location.

A Reminder About Your Information

Help protect your personal and financial information. Never include passwords, PINs, security codes, account numbers, or other sensitive information in an email or online contact form.

First Bank Midwest will never ask you to provide your password, PIN, or one-time security code by email, text, or an unsolicited phone call.