Jefferson Bank Launches SecureU Fraud Initiative as Scams Continue to Rise

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Jefferson Bank Launches SecureU Fraud Initiative as Scams Continue to Rise

June 15, 2026 (Jefferson City, MO) Jefferson Bank has launched SecureU, a new fraud awareness and education initiative designed to help consumers and businesses recognize scams, protect their personal information, and stay informed about emerging threats. SecureU provides easy-to-understand educational resources and timely updates designed to help individuals recognize common fraud tactics and take steps to better protect their personal and financial information.

“Education is one of the most effective tools we have in the fight against fraud,” said Pete Selenke, Business Secrecy Act and Anti Money Laundering Officer. “Criminals continue to evolve their tactics, but awareness remains our strongest defense. SecureU is designed to help people stay informed, recognize warning signs and make safer decisions when faced with suspicious requests.

According to Jefferson Bank, fraud has become a rising concern in our local communities, impacting individuals across every age group and social demographic. Today’s scams are more sophisticated than ever, including tech support scams, sweepstakes/lottery scams, and romance scams. Often, fraudsters use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to scam even the most educated, tech-savvy people.

Scammers are using increasingly convincing tactics, including creating elaborate, believable stories designed to gain trust and manipulate victims into sending money or providing sensitive information. Stay alert to imposters posing as police, government or bank officials claiming your accounts are compromised or demanding immediate payment.

Fraudsters frequently rely on urgency and secrecy to succeed. They may pressure victims to act immediately and insist they avoid contacting family members or their bank, isolating them from advice that could prevent financial loss.

Beware of Red Flags

Seems too good to be true.
Asks for payment in specific, abnormal ways. Legitimate organizations will never demand payment in gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Requests for excessive information. Never share your Social Security number, banking details, or PINs over the phone.
If someone tells you to lie to your bank, family, or friends or coaches you on what to say, walk away immediately.

Protect Yourself

Verify requests by hanging up and calling the official contact information of the bank or organization.
Never send money or valuables to unknown or unverified individuals.
Speak with your bank directly or a trusted family member if asked to keep a financial request a secret.
Set up account alerts and monitor your account activity regularly.

If You Suspect Fraud

Contact your financial institution immediately if you believe your accounts or personal information may be at risk. Jefferson Bank customers should call 866-236-8744 right away for assistance.
Report the incident to local law enforcement.
File a complaint with the FBI at the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov

Fraud prevention starts with education. Through SecureU, Jefferson Bank is committed to equipping communities with the knowledge and tools they need to recognize scams and protect themselves.

Jefferson Bank wants to raise awareness about emerging fraud schemes to help prevent further losses. Whether you are a customer or not, we encourage you to stay informed and cautious so that together we can reduce fraud in our community.

To learn more and access free fraud prevention resources, visit SecureU at https://www.jefferson-bank.com/personal/security/

Central Bancompany, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Jefferson City, Missouri, with approximately $20.5 billion in assets as of March 31, 2026. Its banking subsidiary, The Central Trust Bank, has been serving businesses and customers since 1902. The bank is built on a strong foundation of people, community service, and technology. The Central Trust Bank is a Missouri state-chartered trust company with banking powers and a Federal Reserve state member bank, serving consumers and businesses in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Florida. Divisions of The Central Trust Bank include Central Trust Company and Central Investment Advisors.