scams

Imagine this: you're sipping your morning coffee when a text pops up: “You have an unpaid traffic ticket. Click here to avoid penalties.” It looks official, urgent, and scary. But it’s not from the DMV — it’s a scam. This type of fraud is called smishing, and it’s on the rise. Here’s how to recognize, avoid, and respond to smishing scams — and how Middlefield Bank helps protect your financial information. What Is Smishing? Smishing is...
Read More

Identity theft is a huge issue in today’s ever-evolving world of scams and cyberattacks. You may be aware of the dangers to yourself and your significant other, but did you know that your children can be the target of identity theft schemes as well? Many families don’t realize that a child’s identity is valuable to cybercriminals. At Middlefield Bank, we’re here to help you stay informed and proactive. Here’s what you should know to keep your child safe. What Is...
Read More

Managing finances effectively is crucial to avoid falling into common debt traps. Today, we'll explore some of the most common debt traps, provide tips for staying on track, and highlight common giveaways for scams. 8 Common Debt Traps Credit Card Debt High interest rates and hidden fees can quickly add up, making it difficult to pay off your balance. Tip: Pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. If you can’t pay in full, aim to pay more than the...
Read More

As technology evolves, so do the tactics of scammers. In 2024, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant and protect yourself from financial fraud. Here are 7 scams to watch out for in 2024, along with tips on how to identify and avoid them. 1. AI-Powered Scams Scammers are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to create convincing phishing emails, deepfake videos, and voice messages. These AI-generated scams can impersonate friends, family, or even employers to trick...
Read More