07/06/2026
🚨 SCAM ALERT 🚨
The Carterville Police Department would like to make residents aware of an ongoing phone scam that has recently been reported throughout Southern Illinois.
Scammers are calling individuals and claiming to be representatives from their bank. The caller states there has been fraudulent activity on the victim's account and that an investigation needs to begin immediately. The victim is then instructed to log into their online banking and click a link sent by the caller.
⚠️ DO NOT CLICK THE LINK.
These links may allow scammers to gain access to your phone, personal information, and bank accounts.
Please remember:
• Legitimate banks will not call and ask for your online banking username or password.
• Legitimate banks will not ask you to click a link to access your account during a phone call.
• Caller ID can be spoofed, making it appear that the call is coming from a trusted source.
If you receive a call like this:
1️⃣ Hang up immediately, even if the caller sounds convincing.
2️⃣ Do not click any links sent to you by text message or email.
3️⃣ Contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number, such as the number on the back of your debit or credit card.
This scam is actively affecting people in our region. Please share this post to help protect your family, friends, and neighbors from becoming victims.
If you believe you have provided information to a scammer or suspect fraudulent activity on your account, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to local law enforcement.
Stay vigilant and stay safe.
— Carterville Police Department
