Local financial institutions unite again to help communities fight fraud

MARINETTE – Three local financial institutions are once again setting competition aside and standing together with one shared goal — protecting the communities they proudly serve from online fraud.

Fraud Defense: Real Scams. Real Stories. returns Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Bayshore Arts Center in Marinette. The free community event is hosted by Integra First Credit Union, Peshtigo National Bank and Stephenson National Bank & Trust in partnership with local law enforcement and fraud experts.

Returning as emcee for the second year is Erin Davisson, a familiar and trusted voice throughout northeastern Wisconsin. Davisson spent 32 years at WFRV-TV in Green Bay before making the Wausaukee area her home.

Having seen firsthand how scams and fraud have affected people she knows, she has become a passionate advocate for helping others recognize warning signs and avoid becoming victims.

The evening is not about selling products or promoting businesses. It is about giving people the knowledge they need before they become the next victim.

Scammers do not care where someone banks. They target retirees, young adults, families, businesses, caregivers, and anyone they believe they can manipulate. Fraud has become more sophisticated, more convincing and more personal than ever before.

“Fraud prevention isn’t something one organization can solve alone,” said Kelly Heroux, president and CEO of Peshtigo National Bank.

“When our communities are safer, everyone benefits. That’s why we’re proud to stand alongside other local financial institutions and our law enforcement partners to provide education that could save someone from losing thousands of dollars.”

Attendees will hear firsthand stories from fraud investigators, law enforcement officers and banking professionals who deal with scams every day.

The discussion will cover today’s most common fraud tactics, including impersonation scams, investment fraud, romance scams, social media scams, text message fraud and other rapidly evolving schemes. Attendees will also learn practical steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The event will provide an opportunity for attendees to ask questions directly of the experts and leave with valuable resources they can share with family members, friends, and neighbors.

Since the Fraud Defense program began, attendance has continued to grow as more people recognize that fraud affects every generation. Organizers hope the event inspires attendees not only to protect themselves, but also to begin important conversations with parents, grandparents, children, friends and neighbors about staying vigilant.

Education remains one of the strongest defenses against fraud. The public is invited to attend this free event. No registration is required.