Help for Fraud and Scams
If you think something isn’t right with your account, debit card, or a message you received, don’t wait—acting quickly can prevent additional loss and protect your information. This page provides steps you can take right now, along with ways to report scams or suspicious activity to Western State Bank.
1. If You Suspect Fraud on Your Debit Card
If you believe your debit card number has been compromised, or if your card is lost, stolen, or being used without your permission:
Turn Off Your Card Immediately
Use Card Controls in your Western State Bank mobile app to temporarily disable your card with one tap. This instantly blocks new transactions and keeps your account safe while you figure out what’s going on. Learn more about Card Controls and how to enable it for your debit card.
Card Controls lets you:
- Turn your card on or off any time
- Prevent new transactions from going through
- Set spending limits and alerts
- Control where and how your card can be used
Even if you’re not completely sure there’s fraud, it’s better to turn the card off first, then call us.
After turning off your card:
Review recent transactions in your app or via online banking, and contact your local banking center. We’ll help you determine next steps, including disputing transactions or issuing a new card
2. If You Receive a Suspicious Call, Text, Email, or Message
Scammers often pretend to be your bank, a government agency, or a trusted company. If you receive anything that seems unusual, do not click links, reply, or give out information.
Contact Western State Bank directly so we can confirm whether the message is legitimate.
Remember:
- We will never call, text, or email asking for:
- Your full debit card number
- Your PIN
- Your online banking password
- A verification code we just sent you
- Personal information to “unlock” your account
3. Report A Scam or Suspicious Activity
If you’ve been contacted by a scammer—or believe your card or account may be at risk—please notify your local banking center right away. The more details you can provide, the faster we can assist you and warn other customers.
4. If You Shared Personal or Account Information
If you gave someone your:
- Social Security number
- Online banking username or password
- Verification code
- Debit card number
- Or clicked a link and entered information
Please call your local banking center immediately.
We can help you secure your online banking, reset your login credentials, replace your debit card, monitor your account, and place extra protections on your profile.
5. If You Lost Money in a Scam
We understand how stressful this situation can be. Every case is different, but we will walk you through each step.
We’ll help you:
- Review the transaction
- Determine whether a dispute or claim is possible
- Protect your accounts from further activity
- Take next steps to safeguard your identity
It’s important to contact us as soon as possible. Delays can reduce the chances of recovery.
6. Not Sure What to Do? Call Us.
You never need to feel embarrassed or uncertain. Scammers target people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels.
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and contact Western State Bank. We’re here to help protect you, your money, and our community.