Fraud can happen to anyone—at any age. Whether it’s a fake phone call, a suspicious email, or a sophisticated cryptocurrency scam, fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics. But here’s something that hasn’t changed: they count on their victims staying silent.
At Mercer Savings Bank, we want to change that. We believe that reporting fraud is one of the most powerful things you can do to protect yourself and your community.
Why People Don’t Report Fraud
Many fraud victims feel embarrassed or ashamed. They may wonder how they “fell for it” or worry about what others will think. But the truth is, these scams are designed to trick people—and they do it well. From urgent threats to promises of big returns, scammers use pressure and emotional manipulation to get what they want.
Here’s the thing: staying silent only helps the scammers. When fraud goes unreported, they continue to target others with the same tactics.
Why Reporting Matters
It Protects Others
Fraudsters don’t stop after one success. Reporting your experience can help others recognize the same scam and avoid becoming the next victim.
It Helps Law Enforcement
Your report adds to the growing body of evidence that law enforcement uses to track patterns, investigate criminals, and ultimately take them down.
It Measures the Real Cost of Fraud
Government agencies use fraud reports to understand how much these crimes are costing Americans—and to push for better tools, policies, and protections.
Take Action: Know Who to Contact
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of fraud, don’t wait. These are the key resources you can use to report what happened:
- Mercer Savings Bank – Contact your local branch immediately to report suspicious activity or get help securing your accounts.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – File a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov. They collect data and issue alerts based on scam trends.
- Ohio Attorney General’s Office – Use their Consumer Protection section to file complaints and learn about fraud prevention.
- Local Police Department – Especially important if your identity or money has been stolen. Filing a report helps document the fraud and may support any recovery efforts.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) – Report scams through their Scam Tracker and view recent fraud reports in your area.
- AARP Fraud Watch Network – A great resource for older adults. They offer scam alerts, a helpline, and community support. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.
Help Us Build a Safer Community
At Mercer Savings Bank, we’re committed to helping our community stay safe from fraud. We regularly update our Fraud Resources page with blog posts, scam alerts, and actionable tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Fraud thrives on silence.
Let’s stop it—together.
