New banking scam is circulating in the region

Local authorities and financial institutions are warning customers about a new, highly deceptive banking scam currently circulating in our area.

The Graves County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday multiple tactics are being used which appear legitimate to get people to give out sensitive banking information or surrendering their debit cards.

Scammers are spoofing the bank’s name and phone number, making it appear as if the call is coming from your financial institution.

After calling, the scammer will often send a follow‑up text message asking for: online banking username or password, one-time passcodes, PIN numbers and other confidential login information.  They may claim it’s needed to “verify your identity” or “stop fraudulent activity.”

Once the scammer has access to your online banking, they will use person‑to‑person (P2P) payment services to transfer money out of your account—often instantly.

There is a new and very concerning aspect of the scheme.  They are saying a persons debit card has been compromised and a representative from the bank's “Fraud Team” will come pick up the card from their mailbox.

They often know your street address and the last four digits of your card, making the request sound legitimate.

A paid Uber or courier driver—who typically has no idea they’re participating in a scam—is then dispatched to retrieve the card from your home.

These incidents are happening after hours and on weekends, when banks are closed and harder to reach.  

If you receive one of these calls, do not give out any personal banking information and hang up immeidately.  

Call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card if you have doubts or need to confirm account activity. Report the incident to your bank and local law enforcement.