Hometown Bank customers being targeted by scammers, bank president explains what to look out for

Hometown Bank, which has locations in Corbin, Williamsburg, London and Barbourville, has been notifying its customers in recent days to inform them about a number of scams that have been taking place.

On Aug. 17, Hometown Bank made the following announcement via its Facebook page: “It has come to our attention that the mailer [pictured] has been sent out to some of our customers. This did not come from Hometown Bank.”

“This type of document has been created by an unknown source and is being sent out to people around the area from various banks, so please be aware of this scam.”

“If you ever receive any type of communication that appears to be from us through mail, email, text, or telephone call that you are unsure of, please be sure to contact us directly. We will always be glad to verify the legitimacy of any type of communication.”

On Wednesday, the bank made another post, saying, “Please be aware that there are many scams going around right now. “

“Most recently we have been notified that individuals pretending to be Hometown Bank employees or employees of our processor, CSI, are contacting customers through text, email, and direct call. They are asking for personal information to gain access to the customer’s digital banking.”

“Hometown Bank and CSI are not affiliated with these individuals and will never contact our customers to ask for personal information. We do not need your information to gain access to your digital banking, so please never give out any of your information to anyone. If you ever receive a text, call, or email requesting information please contact us immediately. Do not give out your password. Do not give out your username. Do not give out any codes you are texted.”

A follow-up post showed a sample of a text message that some customers have apparently received. It said, “HOMETOWN BANK OF CORBIN. Did you attempt the following transaction… Walmart $432.44, Target $245.55. To verify transaction please respond Yes/No.”

On Thursday, Bank President Tim Barnes recorded a brief video addressing some of the ongoing scams. In the video, he states, “Recently there has been a scam going around where people are calling, texting, or emailing, asking for passwords and such. They may be saying they are with Hometown Bank, or with our processor, CSI. This is not true. We are not affiliated with these folks in any way. Please do not give out your username or password, or text back with these people.”

Barnes instructed customers to call the bank directly at (606) 528-2000 if they have any questions or concerns.