3 min read Fraud evolves every year, and 2026 is no exception. Scammers are getting sharper with AI‑generated voices and videos, more convincing emails and texts, and new tricks that push you to move money fast. Email spoofing is trickier than ever, and check fraud is not slowing down. The good news is, a few practical habits like verifying requests, slowing down, and using strong authentication, can stop most attacks before they start. Red flags to watch in 2026 “We changed our account—please wire funds today.” Treat any emailed/texted request to change payment details as suspicious. Verify via a trusted, separate channel (known phone number) before sending. High‑pressure texts or calls pushing bank transfers or crypto. Scammers prefer irrevocable payments; FTC data show these methods account for the largest losses. Unexpected QR codes or links that ask you to “secure” an account. CISA warns of phishing and malicious QR/device‑linking that can hijack messaging apps and accounts. Checks gone missing (or altered) after mailing. If you must mail checks, track them and monitor accounts; mail‑theft check fraud remains widespread. Too‑perfect voices or videos from familiar names. AI‑generated audio/video increasingly powers impersonation. If you receive a suspicious message, slow down and confirm through a separate channel. Where fraud is growing Industrialized fraud operations: Visa documents large-scale, automated systems like botnets, synthetic identities, templated scripts, and AI tools that are scaling attacks. These systems can operate at the same scale as a tech company. Money mules: Scammers are reaching out to teenagers and young adults, asking them to illegally move funds. Sometimes the “money mules” are aware they are involved in illegal activity, but not always. Agent bots: Criminals can code bots to act like a support agent from your bank or another service you use. Law enforcement impersonations. Scammers are calling and impersonating law enforcement, demanding money for fake fines or missed court dates. Quick checklist: protect yourself and your business Verify before you pay. Confirm any account changes or unusual invoices by calling a known number (not the one in the message). Use phishing‑resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere + unique passwords. This can stop most identity‑based attacks and reduce risk of an account takeover. Be QR‑ and link‑skeptical. Don’t scan codes or click links from unsolicited messages. Navigate to official sites directly. Reduce check use; monitor mailed items. Consider safer digital options. If mailing, use tracking and monitor the check’s status. What to do if you suspect fraud Contact your bank immediately so we can help. Preserve evidence (emails, texts, logs, receipts) and monitor accounts/credit. File an IC3 complaint to support the FBI in investigating crimes like these. How Community Banks of Colorado can help We offer guidance and tools to help customers stay a step ahead—like transaction alerts, card controls, and education on secure digital banking practices. For personalized support, reach out to your local branch or our client support team. Remember, if something feels off, don’t act—verify first. With the right tools and knowledge, you can stay protected from fraud every year.
