FBI Warns About an Uptick in Tactics: Be Vigilant Against Fraud

As a precursor to the holiday season, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning about an uptick in AI-generated text, AI-generated images, AI-generated audio and AI-generated videos with malicious intent.1 It also offered tips to protect yourself.

Heightened awareness is still recommended.

Banks, like Synovus, have taken measures to educate customers about the perils of those trying to gain access to your data and, likely, your accounts. Synovus is devoted to keeping your finances secure. Our fraud protection resources and tips can help you recognize — and prevent — potential scams that could have devastating effects.

Please note: No reputable financial institution — INCLUDING Synovus — will ever call, email, or text you to ask for personal information.

If it appears someone from Synovus calls, it’s best to hang up and call the verified 1-888-SYNOVUS (888-796-6887). number. Keep mind that fraudsters sometimes spoof or use vishing scams to make phone numbers appear accurate, or look as though it originates with a trusted business, on cell phones or caller ID.

It’s an important distinction because two prevalent scams, called pretexting and second-stage attacks, have ratcheted up lately. Bad actors, pretending to be from a bank or financial institution, may call customers as though they’re from the company’s “fraud department.” They may ask for two-factor authentication codes, data, or information, or even leave a spoofed phone number in voicemail, urging the customer to call back.

In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission fielded more than 2.6 million fraud cases, with imposter scams as the most prevalent. Fraudsters use myriad tactics to compromise security and gain access. Again, check out our Synovus Fraud Prevention and Security Hub for various scams and tips to fight bad actors.

According to Banksneveraskthat.com2, fraudsters may also:

• Ask you to open a link you weren’t expecting.
• Use urgent or fear-inducing language.
• Send an ominous attachment.
• Request personal information like pin numbers, passwords, phone codes, or even Social Security numbers.
• Pressure you to log into or send money with payment apps.

In the event you suspect anything off kilter, call us at 1-888-SYNOVUS (888-796-6887) if you believe your Synovus card or account has been impacted.

You can also complete the Customer Security Incident Reporting form if you believe you've discovered a potential security concern regarding any Synovus products.

Other Helpful Content

• Common Holiday Scams
• Tips for Online Shopping
• Charity Scams
• ChatGPT and Phishing
• Smishing Scams
• Vishing Scams
• Card Skimming
• Credit Card Fraud
• Check Washing Fraud
• Phone SIM Swapping