We want to make you aware of an active fraud ring targeting community banks across Northeast Wisconsin, including BLC. These scammers are contacting our customers by phone and text, pretending to be from BLC’s “Fraud Department", 

In one recent case, a caller using the name “Bryan Reynolds,” is claiming to represent BLC. We do not employ anyone by that name but this is not the only name they might be using.  Their goal is to trick you into sharing your online banking login, password, or token ID so they can access your account and initiate unauthorized wires or ACH transfers. Your best defense is to hang up and call us directly to ask to speak to your known and trusted BLC team member.

BLC Will NEVER Ask for:

  • Your online banking username or password
  • Your token ID or fob code
  • Any multi-factor authentication (MFA) code via phone, text, or email

If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call us directly at 920-788-4141.

Know the 5 P’s to Prevent Fraud

These five steps can help you spot and stop scams before they start:

  1. Pretend – Is someone pretending to be a trusted source (like your bank)?
  2. Problem/Prize – Are they saying there’s a crisis or reward that needs urgent action?
  3. Pressure – Are they rushing you to respond quickly?
  4. Pay/Provide – Are they asking for money or personal info?
  5. Pause – Take a breath. Slow down. Think it through. Trust your instincts.

    Real Example of a Fraud Text

    Here’s a message a customer recently received from a scammer:

    "BLC Community Banks®: Keeping your information secure is our top priority, we're always on the lookout for new ways to protect you, and your business. One of our security measures in the client credentials termination process. Please follow: {LINK} DO NOT SHARE THIS LINK WITH ANYONE"

    “BLC Community Bank Fraud Prevention 855-XXX-XXXX: BLC Community Bank has detected a token associated with fraudulent activity. Please log into your account to verify your identity.”

    Why they're suspicious:

    • Claims to be from BLC “Fraud Prevention” (not a real department) or incorrect use of Bank name
    • Uses fear-based language to create urgency
    • Asks you to take immediate action with your login credentials
    • Strange links you weren't expecting

    What To Do if You Receive a Suspicious Call or Message:

    • Hang up on unexpected calls claiming to be from BLC— don’t click or respond.
    • Call us directly to confirm if something is wrong.
    • Never share credentials like passwords, MFA codes, or token IDs with anyone – not even us.
    • Enable alerts and multi-factor authentication in your online banking settings. 
    • Report anything suspicious immediately to us directly and at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

    If you believe you’ve been targeted or need assistance, please call us directly at 920-788-4141. You are not alone, and we’re here to help protect your accounts and peace of mind.

    Visit our full Fraud Information Hub for prevention tips and next steps if you've been targeted.