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Fraud can happen to anyone, and scams are becoming more convincing every day. Scammers often use technology, emotional pressure, and impersonation to rush people into decisions, giving them a chance to access personal and financial information before you have time to pause and verify.

At Pathfinder Bank, we believe understanding how these scams work is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your finances. We encourage our customers and community members to learn directly from trusted local experts at an upcoming scam awareness event.

The Oswego County Sheriff’s Department is hosting the Fraud Prevention and Scam Awareness Night, an informative event that brings together law enforcement, financial professionals, and community resources to shed light on scams happening nationwide and in our communities.

Local experts, including Pathfinder Bank’s very own Jessica Cavallaro, VP Security and Fraud Officer, will share how these scams work, what warning signs to watch for, and practical steps to take if you think you’ve been targeted.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
• Time: 7:00 P.M.
• Location: Event Center at Cayuga Community College – Fulton Campus (11 River Glen Dr., Fulton, NY)

Here’s a look at some of the scams on the rise that will be covered during the event, so you’ll know what to watch for in your own community:

• Loved-One Emergency and AI Scams
  Scammers may pretend to be a family member in trouble, sometimes even using artificial intelligence to mimic voices or writing styles, and pressure you to send money quickly.
• Imposter Scams
  Fraudsters sometimes claim to be from the government, your bank, or another trusted organization, often threatening consequences or asking for personal information.
• Financial Scams
  Investment schemes, cryptocurrency scams, and romance scams are designed to gain your trust before asking for money.
• Digital Threats
  QR code scams, fake text messages, and online blackmail attempts can lead you to fraudulent websites that try to steal your personal or banking information.

Why Being Aware Matters

Even the most cautious person can be at risk for fraud. By knowing the warning signs, you take away their advantage and protect yourself, your family, and your finances. Attending events like Fraud Prevention and Scam Awareness Night gives you the tools and confidence to spot scams before they cause harm.

We’re Here to Help

At Pathfinder Bank, your financial security is always a top priority. If you ever receive a suspicious call, text, or email, or just want peace of mind, our team is here to help.

We encourage you to join us at Fraud Prevention and Scam Awareness Night. Together, we can stay informed, stay alert, and keep our community safe.