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‘Tis the Season to Be Vigilant Against Fraud: FBI Warns Against an Uptick in Tactics

It may be the season of giving, filled with shopping, transactions, money changing hands and good cheer. However, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), bad actors relish the role of Grinch and may view it otherwise – as the season of stealing. 

On December 3, the FBI issued a warning that there has been 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 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, trusted number at 1-888-SYNOVUS(888-796-6887). Fraudsters sometimes spoof or use vishing scams to make phone numbers appear accurate 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.

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.

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Important disclosure information

This content is general in nature and does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult with competent legal, tax, accounting, financial or investment professionals based on your specific circumstances. We do not make any warranties as to accuracy or completeness of this information, do not endorse any third-party companies, products, or services described here, and take no liability for your use of this information.

  1. “Criminals Use Generative Artificial Intelligence to Facilitate Financial Fraud,” FBI, published December 3, 2024. Accessed December 9, 2024. Back
  2. “Banksneveraskthat.com,” accessed December 9, 2024. Back