Fraudulent email and telephone messages are circulating to individuals and businesses across central Maine.  These notices state that your Skowhegan Savings Bank account has been temporarily suspended.  The notices provide a number to call to reactivate your account.  When dialed the automated attendant requests the 16 digit card number, expiration date and the 4 digit pin. 

Skowhegan Savings Bank did not send these notices nor would the Bank ask our customers to enter this data via the telephone.  This is a commonly used Phishing Scam that has targeted many Banks across Maine.

Please disregard the messages and do not call the phone numbers listed.  If you have called and provided any credit or debit card information, or if you have further questions, please contact our Customer Service Center 1-800-303-9511.

If you have not called the numbers listed, all of your account information is safe and secure.  It is important to note this Phishing scam was not due to a breach of Bank information.  Email lists and telephone lists are readily available, can be purchased and are often used to perpetrate Phishing attacks. 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PHISHING

"Phishing" is when criminals use email, phone and online scams to purposefully and maliciously trick people into sharing information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, account and credit card details and even your mother's maiden name! Phishing is Fraud and it is a crime.

Defend Yourself:

·  Educate yourself, your family, and if applicable, your co-workers, clients and business partners on what Information Theft is, and what you can do to protect yourself.

·  No legitimate business or government agency will ever ask for personal information via email or phone unless you initiate the contact. If you receive such a request, DON'T RESPOND.

The following links provide more information on phishing:

THE MAINE BUREAU OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS WARNING DATED JUNE 18, 2008 REGARDING PHISHING SCHEMES

"Skowhegan Savings is an independent mutual savings bank committed to maintaining the trust of our customers and communities and meeting the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses within our service areas."