A Joint Effort to Protect Consumers from Scams
On March 5, 2026, federal, state, and local governments, non-profit organizations, and private companies are joining forces to help protect consumers from scams. Over the years, scams have grown and evolved in scale and sophistication.
The Federal Trade Commission reported that consumers lost over $12.5 billion to scams in 2024- a 25% increase from 2023. Consumers lost more than $5.7 billion to investment scams and almost $2.95 billion to imposter scams. Consumer awareness is the most effective method of deterring these crimes; therefore, Slam the Scam Day is held annually as part of the Federal Trade Commission’s National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). Don’t let scammers catch you unaware of their malicious tricks and schemes. Scammers are counting on you being uninformed of their deceptive tactics so that you will fall prey to their ruses.
We are all vulnerable. Scammers target individuals, businesses, and even government agencies to attempt to steal money or personal information. They pretend to be from a well-known business or organization. Scammers state there’s some sort of problem or offer a prize, such as a benefit increase. They pressure you to act quickly. Most alarming, scammers tell you to pay using currency that is hard to trace, such as cryptocurrency, gift card, prepaid debit card, wire transfer, cash, or even gold bars. They might even say they are helping to keep your money safe.
“Scams are designed to exploit trust, urgency, and fear,” said Kerry Everidge, Information Security Officer at Planters First Bank. “At Planters First Bank, protecting our customers’ financial well-being is a responsibility we take seriously. Education, awareness, and strong security practices are our best defense. We are committed to equipping our customers and communities with the tools they need to stay safe.”
Planters First Bank actively works year-round to help protect customers and communities from fraud through multiple initiatives, including:
- Online Security Center offering up-to-date fraud alerts, cybersecurity tips, and scam education resources
- Internal Fraud Academy, where bank employees receive ongoing training to recognize scams and help customers respond quickly and safely
- Community Outreach Events, hosted and sponsored throughout the year, where our hometown bankers speak directly with community members and provide free fraud-prevention resources
How You Can Help Slam the Scam
Follow and share #SlamTheScam posts on social media to help spread awareness. Stay skeptical of unexpected contact from businesses or organizations. Hang up or delete suspicious messages, avoid clicking unknown links, and never send money or personal information under pressure.
Scammers Impersonate the Government (PDF)
Scammers target everyone. (PDF)
How Scammers Steal Your Life Savings Infographic (PDF)
If you believe you’ve encountered a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and visit ftc.gov/scams to stay informed about emerging scam tactics. Together, through awareness, education, and community partnership, we can slam the scam and help protect what matters most.