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Password Security Check: Alerts You if Your Password is Found on the Dark Web

Password Security Check

We’re excited to introduce Password Security Check, a new free service from The Callaway Bank that helps protect your Digital Banking.  It works by comparing your password against those exposed in known data breaches or on the dark web.  If the system finds a match, you’ll get an alert when you log into Digital Banking, encouraging you to change your password.

Why Is This Important?

Recent research shows that 94% of leaked passwords are either reused or weak, meaning the vast majority of online accounts are protected by shaky measures. That’s because only about 6% of exposed passwords were unique, leaving the rest dangerously predictable and reusable across multiple sites.1  Additionally, passwords that have been collected through countless breaches over the years are available on the dark web for hackers to access.  Why try to guess passwords when they can start with the most common ones?

How Does Password Security Check Work?

This new service, provided by The Callaway Bank, is free and will automatically run in the background for all of our Digital Banking clients.  The system compares your password against a constantly updated database of exposed passwords.  It’s important to understand that finding a match does NOT mean your account has been hacked. It does mean that your password matches those of other people whose passwords were compromised.  Hackers could, however, try to use it to access your accounts. This Password Check helps spot that risk before it becomes a problem.

What’s the Benefit To Me?

Our Password Security Check adds an extra layer of protection to your online banking—helping keep your account safe from fraud and unauthorized access.

Who at the Bank Can Access my Password?

Nobody within the Bank can see or access your password. Our banking system does not allow anyone to view your password.  But because the system knows your password, it can compare it to the database of other compromised passwords.

When Will Password Security Check Be Active?

February 24th will be when it goes live.

Want to Know More about Creating and Using Stronger Passwords?

When you manage your money and accounts online, the strength of your passwords matters more than ever. We’ve put together seven tips on how to make your passwords stronger and easier to manage.

 

Source:
1https://cybernews.com/security/password-leak-study-unveils-2025-trends-reused-and-lazy/

Fraudsters Target Even the Savvy: A Real-Life Account Reveals Deception

In a world where fraud can target anyone, even the most informed and discerning individuals can become victims of cunning schemes. The following incident from a Callaway Bank client is a stark reminder of this unsettling reality and the importance of fraud prevention.

How Fraudsters Target Locals in Boone & Callaway Counties

Mary Quartermont, Assistant Vice President and Deposit Operations Manager at The Callaway Bank, has seen many unfortunate instances of good people conned out of their life savings. She shares a true story of an intelligent individual who fell into the clutches of a fraudulent scheme orchestrated through social media.

This victim was a widower who had recently lost his spouse and encountered a fraudster on Facebook posing as an investment agent with an impressive reputation. The scammer recognized that the victim was likely lonely. Over several months, they deftly built a bond with the gentleman, using shared interests and friendly conversations to establish trust.

Fraud Prevention in Columbia, MO | Handsome mature man in casual suit sitting at the table in home office and thinking on his work, when looking at laptop screenAs the relationship grew, the fraudster skillfully persuaded the victim to invest funds under the pretense of lucrative opportunities. They even produced a fake account that showed they were making money for their clients. These con artists often create fake websites and social media personas to help convince their victims that everything they say is legitimate.

How Bankers Identify Potential Fraud

The scammer gave detailed instructions on wiring the funds to be invested. Knowing that the bank would ask about details of the wire, the victim was coached on what to say to help navigate the bank’s scrutiny and evade detection. “Tell them you’re helping a family member out, or it’s going to one of your kids, etc. That will steer the bank from suspicion of fraud,” the fraudster explained.

However, the keen-eyed team at The Callaway Bank detected inconsistencies in the transaction, prompting a thorough investigation. At first, the client was insistent that he knew this individual and that they would not scam him or cause him financial harm. Despite initial reluctance from the targeted gentlemen, the evidence revealed the scheme’s true nature. The victim had unwittingly fallen for a clever ploy, capitalizing on their emotional vulnerability and desire for a good investment.

It is vital to understand that falling prey to such deceit does not reflect the victim’s shortcomings. These con artists employ sophisticated tactics that can ensnare individuals from all walks of life, all ages, and all levels of education, regardless of their technological expertise.

How to Protect Yourself From Fraudsters

The Callaway Bank urges customers to remain vigilant and seek support if they encounter suspicious situations. Seeking advice from trusted family members, bankers, or close friends can act as a defense against these insidious practices and ensure fraud prevention.

This cautionary tale reminds us that fraudsters are adept at manipulating situations and emotions, making it essential for individuals to remain cautious and informed to protect themselves from potential scams. No one is exempt from the risk, and staying alert is the first defense against these cunning perpetrators.

If you experience a suspicious interaction, don’t hesitate to contact us for further review.


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