Fraud Alert: Fake Texts and Calls Reported
We want to make you aware of PHISHING scam claiming to be from The Farmers Bank to gain access to customer accounts. These text, email, and phone messages often appear legitimate and may reference your online banking activity or claim there has been a possible fraudulent charge on your account.
In one recent example today, a customer received a text message asking if they authorized a charge. When they responded “No,” then were immediately called by someone claiming to represent The Farmers Bank. The caller then requested the customer’s account and login information, and when the customer refused, the individual became aggressive and demanding.
Unfortunately, scammers have become very sophisticated in how they gather contact information and craft messages that look legitimate. This is happening through publicly available information, random phishing campaigns, spoofing and caller ID manipulation, just to name a few.
Please be aware that these messages and calls are not from The Farmers Bank. The Farmers Bank will NEVER need you to provide your SMART credentials to assist you or to deactivate your account. We will NEVER ask for a Secure Access Code to assist you with stopping a transaction or for confirmation about your account or profile.
The Farmers Bank will never call, text, or email you asking for your online banking credentials, account numbers, or personal identifying information - unless you have personally initiated that call directly with us. You must be the one to start the conversation for it to be legitimate.
For your protection:
- Do not respond to suspicious texts or calls.
- Do not click on any links or provide any information.
- Hang up immediately if someone pressures or threatens you to share account details.
- If you are uncertain, or have any questions at all, contact your local financial center or our Customer Support team at (765-654-8731) to verify whether a message is legitimate.
At this time, The Farmers Bank has no active messages, promotions, or campaigns that would request your account or login information.
Your trust and security remain our top priority. Thank you for helping us safeguard your accounts and our community.
Protect Your Account from Fraud
Your security remains our top priority. During times of change, cybercriminals often take advantage of increased email and online activity to send fraudulent messages or create fake websites.
Please take a moment to review these tips to help keep your account safe during our transition to the SMART Online Banking dashboard.
- Verify Before You Click – Only log in through our official website or app. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts. If you are not sure, you can always visit TheFarmersBank.com directly to access your account.
- Watch for Urgent or Unusual Requests – be cautious of messages that pressure you to act quickly, provide account details, or send payments.
- Confirm Sender Information – fraudulent emails often look convincing but may use slightly misspelled names or unusual email addresses.
- Keep Your Credentials Private – The Farmers Bank will never ask you to share your username, password, or secure access word by email, phone, or text. The Farmers Bank will never ask you to provide account details over the phone without you first confirming your security word. You can always call us 765-654-8731 so that you know you are talking to the bank.
- Report Suspicious Activity – If you receive a questionable message or notice unauthorized transactions, contact your local Financial Center or for businesses the Treasury Management team immediately.
Need Assistance
Our team is ready to help.
- Call Us
- 765-654-8731 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and 9:00 am – 12:00 pm on Saturday.
- Call volume may be higher than normal. Thank you for your patience. We will assist you as quickly as possible.
- Email Us
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About The Farmers Bank
Founded and headquartered in Frankfort, Indiana since 1876, The Farmers Bank is a community bank with 11 full-service locations across Boone, Clinton, and Hamilton counties. Built on a legacy of trust and personal connection, The Farmers Bank offers comprehensive banking solutions — including deposits, lending, investment, and trust services — tailored to meet the needs of individuals, families, and businesses. Committed to growing stronger communities through meaningful relationships, The Farmers Bank continues to deliver a better banking experience—one relationship at a time. Learn more at thefarmersbank.com. Let’s Grow!
CUSTOMER CONTACT
Customer Care Center
contactus@thefarmersbank.com
765-654-8731 headquarters