Fraudsters are getting more convincing. Text messages look real. Emails sound urgent. Phone calls may even appear to come from a familiar number.
The good news is that many scams still rely on the same tactics: pressure, confusion, and speed. That means one of the most effective ways to protect yourself is also one of the simplest: slow down.
At Saco & Biddeford Savings, we want you to feel confident and supported, not scared. Fraud prevention isn’t about knowing every scam that exists. It’s about building a few steady habits you can rely on when something doesn’t feel right.
That’s where our three‑step approach comes in:
1) Pause
Most scams succeed because they rush you. The message might say:
- “Your account is locked.”
- “There’s suspicious activity.”
- “You must act immediately.”
This urgency is intentional. When you’re stressed, you’re more likely to click a link, share information, or send money without thinking it through.
A pause can be as small as taking a breath, stepping away from your phone, or telling yourself: “I don’t have to respond right this second.”
Try this: If you receive an unexpected message, don’t click anything right away. Read it twice. Ask yourself: Does this feel urgent, unusual, or out of character?
2) Verify
Verification means checking the request using a trusted method — not the contact information provided in the message.
Scammers can:
- Spoof phone numbers (so it looks like a legitimate caller)
- Create look‑alike websites
- Use email addresses that resemble real ones
If you want to verify something, use contact information you trust, such as:
- The number on the back of your bank card
- The phone number listed on the official bank website
- A visit to your local branch
If you’re ever unsure, call our Customer Care team at 207‑284‑4591 or stop by your local branch.
3) Report
One of the biggest barriers to fraud prevention is hesitation. People worry they’re overreacting, or feel embarrassed, or aren’t sure it “counts” as a real problem.
Here’s the truth: Reporting suspicious activity early can prevent losses and protect others. Even if it turns out to be harmless, it’s always okay to ask.
When you report something, our team can help you:
- Confirm whether a message is legitimate
- Secure your accounts if needed
- Take next steps confidently
A reminder we want every customer to know
We will never ask you to reveal or confirm personal or account information by email. If you receive a message asking for sensitive details, pause and contact us directly.
The takeaway
You don’t need to memorize every scam. You just need a plan you can remember under pressure.
Pause. Verify. Report.
If something feels suspicious, contact our Customer Care team at 207‑284‑4591 or stop by your local branch. We’re here to help.
