“Banks Never Ask that” Bank of Botetourt joins cyber security month campaign

Today Bank of Botetourt joined the American Bankers Association and banks across the nation to promote an industry-wide campaign educating consumers about the persistent threat of phishing scams. The FTC estimates that consumers lost $5.8 billion
to phishing and other fraud in 2021, an increase of more than 70% compared to 2020. To combat phishing, the bogus bank communications asking for sensitive information like their passwords and social security numbers.
“We are pleased to partner with the ABA on this campaign to help bring awareness to our customers regarding the threats of identity theft,” said G. Lyn Hayth, III, BoB President & CEO. “Protecting our customers and equipping them with the information to help protect themselves is extremely important.”
“Phishing attempts are at an all-time high and scammers are targeting consumers from every direction—by text, phone and email,” said Paul Benda, senior vice president, operational risk and cybersecurity at ABA. “Education and awareness are key to helping consumers spot a scam, and with help from participating banks like Bank of Botetourt, we’re able to reach bank customers across the country so they can stay one step ahead of the scammers.”

Bank of Botetourt, along with more than 1,000 banks from across the U.S. and ABA, are kicking off this year’s updated campaign on Oct. 3 to mark the beginning of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Throughout the month Bank of Botetourt will share eye-catching and engaging short videos and consumer tips on social media and in bank branches designed to highlight common phishing schemes.

Because cybersecurity education and fraud awareness can often be dull and forgettable to many
consumers, the campaign is designed to be bright and bold with a bit of comedy.
“Do you prefer boxers or briefs? Do you believe in aliens?!,” one of the campaign’s animated GIFs asks social media users.
“Banks would never ask you these questions. Here’s another question a real bank would never ask: We’ve spotted some unusual activity on your account; can you please verify your username and password?”
The campaign’s short videos offer similarly ridiculous scenarios like wallpapering a room with cash, roasting marshmallows over a cash fire and recycling cash on garbage day. Consumers are directed to BanksNeverAskThat.com where they will find an interactive game, videos, phishing red flags, tips, and FAQs.

For more information about phishing scams and how to stop fraudsters in their tracks, visit www.BanksNeverAskThat.com.

==Mary Ann Miller Vice President of Business and Commuirty Banking