Protect what you've worked hard for
Fraudsters are always finding new ways to trick people into sharing personal information. One common scam is account takeover fraud. This is when someone gains access to your account and makes unauthorized transactions. At BankChampaign, your security is our priority. Here’s how these scams work and how you can protect yourself.
Impersonation Scams
Scammers are increasingly posing as law enforcement, tech support, and even BankChampaign employees to convince you to move money or hand over access to your accounts and devices.
Law enforcement will never demand cash to resolve an identity theft case. If a "US Marshal," IRS agent, or similar asks you to withdraw cash and meet a courier, it's a scam.
Tech support will never contact you unprompted about a virus and ask for remote computer access. Do not grant access, and never wire money to a "safe account" on their instruction.
BankChampaign will never ask to remotely access your computer to fix an ACH file, wire, or account issue. Contact us directly at 217-351-2870 if this happens.
The Warning Signs
- You’re told to keep the transaction secret from family and bank staff
- You’re pressured to act immediately or face consequences
- You’re asked to install software or give remote access to your device
- You’re asked to withdraw cash or wire funds to an account or person you don’t know
What Is an Account Takeover?
An account takeover happens when a scammer pretends to be your financial institution – often using realistic texts, emails, or phone calls – to get your personal details. Once they have your information, they can lock you out and drain your funds.
How It Works
Fraudsters typically start by sending a fake text message that looks like it’s from your bank.
They may follow up with a phone call pretending to be from the “fraud department,” asking for your login or verification codes to “cancel” the payment. Once they have that info, they can access your account and move money without your consent.
BankChampaign will never call you to request your account number, online banking credentials, or verification codes.
Do not reply, click links, or call numbers in suspicious messages. Account takeover fraud usually begins on a Friday, after business hours, and runs through the weekend.
Everyday Habits to Stay Protected
Small actions can help you stop fraud before it starts:
Think Before You Respond
If a message or call feels off - it probably is.
Beware of Impersonation Scams
If a call, email, or text claims to be from BankChampaign, a government agency, or tech support, and asks for personal information, money, or remote access, consider it fraud.
Avoid Suspicious Links and Messages
Don’t click unknown links or reply to unexpected texts or emails.
Never Share Personal Information Over the Phone
Hang up immediately if someone asks for personal information over the phone.
Create Strong, Unique Passwords
Use strong, unique passwords and update them regularly.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Add extra protection to your accounts by requiring a second verification step, like a text code or app, to keep your information secure.
Secure Your Devices and Networks
Protect your devices with updated antivirus software and avoid using public Wi-Fi for banking.
Safely Dispose of Sensitive Documents
Shred any documents containing personal information.
Regularly Monitor Your Accounts
Monitor your accounts frequently for suspicious activity and report concerns quickly.
Never Give Remote Access to Your Computer
No legitimate company will ever ask to remote into your device to fix a virus or "correct" a file.
Verify Before You Withdraw or Wire Money
If anyone asks you to withdraw cash or wire funds to "resolve" an issue, stop and verify independently first.
Beware of Being Asked to Keep Your Transaction a Secret
Legitimate banks, government agencies, and companies will never ask you to hide the reason for a transaction from bank staff.
I'm a victim of Identity Theft. What should I do?
When someone illegally obtains your personal information, such as your Social Security number, credit card number, bank account number or other identification and uses it to open accounts or initiate transactions in your name, they have committed identity theft. If this happens to you, follow these steps below:
Contact Us IMMEDIATELY
Contact BankChampaign immediately at 217-351-2870. We will secure your BankChampaign accounts and help with suggestions for your other financial relationships.
File a police report
File a police report with local authorities.
Contact the fraud departments
Contact the fraud departments of the three credit bureaus below. Place a fraud alert and request a copy of your credit report.
Trans Union: 800.680.7289
Experian: 888.397.3742
Equifax: 800.525.6285
File a complaint with the FTC
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission online or by phone at 877.438.4338
https://www.identitytheft.gov/