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Phishing, Smishing, Vishing: Don’t Take the Bait
Phishing Scams Learn how to spot phishing, smishing, and vishing scams. Stay alert and protect your personal info with tips from 316 Financial. Don’t take the bait. Phishing, Smishing, Vishing: Don’t Take the Bait Author: 316 Financial Published: Thursday, March 27, 2025 Scammers are getting creative, but their goal is always the same—to steal your personal information. Phishing, smishing, and vishing are different ways they try to trick you into handing it over. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead. How These Scams Work Phishing (Email Scams): You get an email that looks legit—maybe from your bank, a friend or even your church. It asks you to click a link, update your password, or confirm your account details. The link leads to a fake site designed to steal your info.Smishing (Text Message Scams): A text pops up claiming you’ve won a prize, your account has been compromised, or you need to verify a charge. The link? A trap. Clicking it could install malware or steal your login credentials.Vishing (Phone Call Scams): A caller, often pretending to be from your bank, tech support, or even the IRS, pressures you to provide sensitive information over the phone. They may spoof a real phone number to seem credible.Red Flags to Watch For Urgency and fear tactics. “Act now, or your account will be locked!” Scammers want you to panic.Requests for personal info. No real company will ask for your passwords, PINs, or full Social Security number over email, text, or phone.Suspicious links. Hover over a link before clicking—if it looks strange or doesn’t match the sender, don’t trust it.Unexpected attachments. A random invoice, receipt, or tracking number? Don’t open it. It could be malware.Caller ID tricks. Just because it looks like your bank’s number doesn’t mean it is. Always hang up and call back using a trusted number.If you get a message, email, or call that feels off—stop, think, and verify. When in doubt, contact us directly at 833.316.3167. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Romance Scams: When Love Isn’t What It Seems
Romance Scams Romance scams are on the rise. Learn how to spot the red flags, protect your heart and money, and help loved ones avoid online relationship fraud. Romance Scams: When Love Isn’t What It Seems Author: 316 Financial Published: Thursday, March 27, 2025 Love is a beautiful thing—but not when it’s a scam. Romance scams are on the rise, preying on good-hearted people looking for connection. These scams don’t just break hearts—they empty bank accounts. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones. How Romance Scams Work Scammers create fake identities, gain trust, and then ask for money. It usually goes like this: They meet you online. Dating apps, social media, even faith-based groups—scammers know where to find people looking for genuine connections.They move fast. Sweet messages, deep conversations, even “I love you” within weeks. They make you feel special.They have a reason they can’t meet in person. They’re “stationed overseas,” “on a secret business trip,” or “dealing with a personal crisis.”They ask for money. The excuses vary—medical bills, travel costs, family emergencies—but the request is always urgent.Who’s at Risk? Anyone. But scammers often target:✅ Widows and divorcees looking for companionship✅ People of faith who trust easily and want to help✅ Older adults who may be less tech-savvy✅ Newcomers to online dating who don’t know the red flags How Victims Lose Money Scammers use different methods to drain bank accounts:🚨 Wire transfers: Hard to trace, impossible to reverse🚨 Gift cards: A common scam method—once the code is shared, the money is gone🚨 Cryptocurrency: Fast, anonymous, and untraceable🚨 Bank info: They might convince victims to "help" by depositing a check. sharing account details or opening an account for them. How to Stay Safe 💡 Be skeptical of online romances that move too fast💡 Never send money, gift cards, or crypto to someone you haven’t met in person💡 Watch for excuses when they refuse video calls or in-person meetings💡 Talk to someone you trust before making any financial decisions If you or someone you love might be caught in a romance scam, act fast. Stop all contact, report it to the FTC, and call us at 833.316.3167 if your bank account was involved. Real love is patient, kind, and never asks for money through a screen. Stay wise, stay safe. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Scammers Are Posing as the IRS—Here’s How to Stay Safe
IRS Scams Scammers are posing as the IRS via text to steal your info. Learn how to spot fake messages, protect your data, and stay safe with tips from 316 Financial. Scammers Are Posing as the IRS—Here’s How to Stay Safe Author: 316 Financial Published: Friday, March 28, 2025 Scammers are using fake IRS texts to steal personal information, making it seem like you need to act fast to claim your payment. But the truth is simple: ✅ If you qualify, the IRS will send your payment automatically.✅ You’ll get it by direct deposit or check—no action required.✅ The IRS will never text you asking for personal or financial details. How to Spot a Scam: 🚨 The IRS doesn’t send texts about payments or ask for sensitive information.🚨 Official government websites end in “.gov”—scammers often use “.com” to look legit.🚨 If it feels off, trust your instincts. What to Do If You Get a Scam Text: 📌 Ignore it. Don’t engage or reply.📌 Don’t click any links. It could steal your personal data.📌 Report it. Forward scam texts to The U.S. Treasury Inspector General Hotline. At 316 Financial, we believe in protecting what matters most—including your financial security. Stay aware, stay safe, and always double-check before you trust. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
The $1 Rule: A Surprisingly Simple Way to Build Your Savings
The $1 Rule: A Surprisingly Simple Way to Build Your Savings Discover the $1 Rule—an easy, stress-free way to build savings. Learn how saving just $1 a day can grow into a meaningful financial cushion with 316 Financial. The $1 Rule: A Surprisingly Simple Way to Build Your Savings Author: 316 Financial Published: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 Saving money can feel overwhelming—especially when life is full of bills, responsibilities, and the unexpected. But what if the secret to growing your savings wasn’t about big sacrifices, just small steps? Enter the $1 Rule: the simple, no-stress way to build a financial cushion, one dollar at a time.Why $1 Matters More Than You ThinkIt’s easy to dismiss a single dollar. But saving money isn’t just about how much—it’s about consistency. Setting aside $1 a day adds up to:$30 a month—enough to cover a streaming subscription, a meal out, or a little extra gas.$365 a year—a holiday fund, a car repair, or a start to your emergency savings.$1,825 in five years—a serious financial cushion, without making any drastic lifestyle changes.Now imagine increasing that to $2, $5, or rounding up your purchases into savings. The habit of saving grows just as fast as the balance.Earn Interest—Grow Your Money FasterHere’s where the magic happens: when your savings earns interest, your money grows even faster. Instead of just stacking up what you put in, interest helps multiply your savings over time.With 316 Financial's Interest Savings, you earn 4.05% APY (annual percentage yield*), so every dollar you save is working for you. Even better? Your savings helps support causes that uplift—because banking should be about more than just money.Automate It and Forget ItThe easiest way to stick to the $1 Rule? Make it automatic. Set up a daily or weekly transfer to a high-yield savings account, and let time do the work for you. The more effortless it is, the more likely you are to keep saving.Small Steps, Big ImpactA dollar a day may not feel like much, but it’s proof that small actions lead to big results. And when you bank with a company that aligns with your values, every dollar has even more purpose. Remember, deposit accounts can be opened with as little as $1. *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. No minimum balance is required to earn interest. Rates are accurate as of March 6, 2025, and may change at any time. Fees, if applicable, may reduce earnings. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Our Beginning: How 316 Financial Is Changing the Way You Bank
316 Financial Launch How 316 Financial Is Changing the Way You Bank Our Beginning: How 316 Financial Is Changing the Way You Bank Author: Abby Bender Published: Monday, March 17, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2025Media Contact: [email protected]Our Beginning: How 316 Financial Is Changing the Way You BankRICHMOND, Va. – 316 Financial proudly announces its official launch, offering customers across the United States a new way to align their faith and finances. A division of Primis Bank, Member FDIC, 316 Financial sets itself apart by tithing 10% of annual profits to charitable causes, allowing customers to bank with a company that shares their values.“We offer people the best of both worlds: a modern, tech-driven bank with all the bells and whistles that also gives back to causes that uplift and inspire. We call it banking uplifted.” – Jason Williams, Director of Digital Banking and Servicing. 316 Financial delivers a distinctly different experience than typical banks—one built on the belief that faith and finance can work together for good. At the heart of this new venture is its commitment to tithing 10% of profits to charitable causes, a principle guided by the 316 Financial Stewardship Board. This board ensures these contributions create meaningful impact, supporting organizations that uplift communities and spread messages of hope.Rooted in the values that reflect His teachings, 316 Financial is more than a bank—it’s a mission-driven financial partner, empowering customers to make a difference simply by choosing where they bank.Banking That Rewards and Gives Back316 Financial customers benefit from a suite of modern banking features, including:Rewards Checking with 1% cash back on every purchaseInterest Checking and Savings with competitive ratesFree Nationwide ATM access refunding fees each month if assessed24/7 customer care with real people who understand their customers’ values“We take pride in our ability to treat customers as valued members of our community no matter where they live in the United States. A part of what that means is that customers will always get a real person on the phone, no matter the time of day. Our care team understands where our customers are coming from because they often live in the same communities and share the same values.” – Joel Brusherd, Customer Care Center Supervisor.Looking Ahead: More Products, More ImpactAt launch, 316 Financial offers consumer banking products, but plans are already in motion to expand services. Upcoming offerings will include:Business accountsLending solutionsTailored financial products for churches and associationsBy combining cutting-edge banking technology with a mission-driven approach, 316 Financial is redefining what it means to bank with purpose.For more information, visit bank316.com or contact Abby Bender at [email protected].###About 316 Financial 316 Financial is a mission-driven bank that aligns faith and finances, tithing 10% of annual profits to charitable causes. A division of Primis Bank, Member FDIC, 316 Financial offers modern, tech-driven banking solutions while prioritizing generosity and service.Banking services are provided by 316 Financial, a division of Primis Bank, Member FDIC. Deposits at 316 Financial, Primis Bank, and any of its divisions, brands, or affiliates are aggregated to determine FDIC insurance coverage.
316 Financial Featured on WDJC’s Joyful Noise with Russell P. and Jessica
316 Financial Featured on WDJC’s Joyful Noise 316 Financial Featured on WDJC’s Joyful Noise 316 Financial Featured on WDJC’s Joyful Noise with Russell P. and Jessica Author: 316 Financial Published: Thursday, April 3, 2025 March 2025 | Birmingham, Alabama We were honored to be featured on WDJC-FM’s Joyful Noise morning show with Russell P. and Jessica — a meaningful opportunity to introduce 316 Financial to the Birmingham community and share how we’re doing banking differently. Mandi Gilbert, Head of Marketing and Communications, and Jason Williams, Director of Banking Services, joined the show to talk about the vision behind 316 Financial: a bank created to connect faith and finance in a tangible, everyday way. “We built 316 Financial to serve people with modern banking tools and a mission that reflects our values,” says Jason. “That’s really the core of what 316 Financial is.” A division of Primis Bank, 316 Financial offers all the tools of modern banking — including a robust mobile app, FDIC insurance, and 24/7 support — but with a mission rooted in something deeper. The bank tithes 10% of profits to ministries and Christian organizations making a difference in the world. “We don’t think that faith and finance have to sit in two separate boxes,” says Mandi. “[Now, people] can do their banking in a way that reflects their values … and connects with a bigger picture.” We’re deeply grateful to Russell and Jessica for the invitation and conversation — and to the WDJC listeners who are already joining the 316 Financial family! 🎧 Listen to Highlights from the Interview:▶️ Clip 1: What Makes 316 Financial Different Hear about the mission behind 316 Financial and how we’re bringing faith into every financial decision.▶️ Clip 2: How to Get Started Why your savings account can be the perfect first step toward more meaningful money management.▶️ Clip 3:Guided by Values See how faith, peace of mind, hope, and generosity show up in every part of the 316 experience. Want to learn more or open an account?👉 Click here to get started.📞 Or call us anytime at 833.316.3167 — real people, ready to help.
316 Financial Featured on Talks for Christ
316 Financial Featured on Talks for Christ 316 Financial Featured on Talks for Christ 316 Financial Featured on Talks for Christ Author: 316 Financial Published: Friday, April 4, 2025 We recently had the privilege of joining Pastor Bruce Oliver on Talks for Christ, a podcast that highlights faith-driven ministries and organizations. In this conversation, we shared the heart behind 316 Financial and shared more about how we tithe 10% of our profits causes that reflect His teachings. “Banking doesn’t have to be just transactional,” said team member, Mandi Gilbert, “It can be intentional.” We discussed what it means to connect faith and finance, how everyday banking can become an act of generosity, and why tithing is central to our mission. ▶️ Click here to listen to the full episode Or visit TalksForChrist.com to explore more.
Spring Cleaning for Your Finances: A Values-Based Approach
Spring Cleaning for Your Finances: A Values-Based Approach Refresh your finances this spring with 316 Financial's values-based tips for budgeting, goal setting, and mindful money habits. Spring Cleaning for Your Finances: A Values-Based Approach Author: 316 Financial Published: Friday, April 11, 2025 The days are getting longer, flowers are starting to bloom—spring is here! It’s the perfect time to refresh your home … and also take a closer look at your finances. At 316 Financial, we believe managing money is about more than just numbers—it’s about aligning your financial decisions with your values. As you welcome spring with a fresh mindset, here are a few thoughtful ways to “spring clean” and uplift your money habits. 1. Reflect and RenewJust like you open the windows and invite fresh air into your home, spring is a great time to open up your finances and clear out any junky habits. Is your current spending helping you live with purpose? Are your financial choices in line with what matters most to you? Take time to review your expenses, savings, and goals, and consider how your future decisions can better reflect the life you want to lead. 2. Tidy Up Your BudgetIf your budget feels more chaotic than peaceful, it might be time to simplify. Take time to review your monthly spending and cancel unused subscriptions, trim recurring expenses, and redirect your spending toward things that bring lasting value. Updating or creating a monthly budget helps you manage your resources intentionally (and creates peace of mind in the process). 3. Set New GoalsHave you been meaning to start an emergency fund, pay down debt, or plan a vacation without relying on credit cards? Writing down your goals—no matter how large or small—gives you something tangible to aim for, and a motivating reminder when you need to stay on track. 4. Give GenerouslyPart of stewardship—financial and otherwise—is giving generously and graciously. Consider supporting a cause, nonprofit, or neighbor in need. Generosity renews our perspective and reminds us of the meaningful impact our resources can have in the lives of others. 5. Start Fresh with GraceIf previous financial choices are weighing you down, remember this: your financial story is still being written. Spring cleaning your finances isn’t about guilt—it’s about growth. What matters most is where you go from here. Choose an uplifting path forward that brings peace, clarity, and purpose. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
“Why not us?” 316 Financial Joins WFMV to Talk Faith and Finances
316 Financial Joins WFMV to Talk Faith and Finances We had the privilege of joining Jamal Banks of WFMV to talk about 316 Financial “Why not us?” 316 Financial Joins WFMV to Talk Faith and Finances Author: 316 Financial Published: Thursday, April 17, 2025 We had the privilege of joining Jamal Banks of WFMV to talk about 316 Financial—what inspired us, how we’re different, and why we believe your bank should reflect your values.“We realized people choose their churches, schools, and even grocery stores based on shared faith, but banks don’t really function that way,” states Ann-Stanton Gore, Chief Marketing Officer. “And we started asking—why not? Why not us?”In the interview, Ann-Stanton shares how 316 Financial was born out of a desire to bring faith and finances together in a meaningful way. From our commitment to tithing 10% of profits to the organizations that align with our values, to the practical tools we offer to help you steward your resources well, we share our goal of being a partner in your financial peace. Listen to the full interview with WFMV right here.
Guarding What Matters: Staying Safe from Check Fraud
Guarding What Matters: Staying Safe from Check Fraud Check fraud is rising. Learn how to spot scams and protect your finances—especially for churches, nonprofits, and small businesses. Guarding What Matters: Staying Safe from Check Fraud Author: 316 Financial Published: Thursday, May 1, 2025 At 316, we believe managing money is more than math—it’s stewardship. That means not just giving generously, but protecting wisely. Whether you’re running a ministry, leading a business, or simply trying to live out your purpose, part of honoring God with your finances is guarding what He’s placed in your hands.That’s why we want to talk about something that feels a little old-school but is still a very real threat: check fraud.Wait, people still write checks?They do—and scammers know it. In fact, check fraud is on the rise. Why? Because checks are physical, easy to alter, and often overlooked in a world where most people watch their debit cards but not their paper trail.In 2023, the U.S. Postal Service and financial regulators issued warnings about a spike in mail-based check scams. And it’s not just a big-city problem. It’s happening in small towns, local churches, and nonprofit offices—often to people who are just trying to do good.Who’s at risk?Honestly? Anyone. But especially:Churches and ministries who receive check donationsSmall business owners who still pay vendors by checkOlder adults who prefer paper over digitalAnyone who sends or receives checks by mailWhat check scams look likeScammers are getting creative—but here are a few red flags to watch for:You’re sent a check and asked to send money back. (They’ll say it’s a mistake or overpayment—then the check bounces.)The check amount seems off or more than expected.You spot smudged signatures, strange fonts, or different inks.You receive a check out of the blue—like a rebate, prize, or refund you didn’t ask for.Simple ways to protect yourselfYou don’t need a finance degree to outsmart a scam. Just take these small steps:Use online bill pay or ACH transfers instead of mailing checksOnly deposit checks from people you know and trustCheck your account activity weekly—don’t wait for statementsShred old checks and deposit slips before tossing themReport anything suspicious right away—to your bank and the authoritiesKnow that at 316, we’re doing everything we can to help you steward well and live with peace.If you think you’ve been targeted or want to talk through your options, reach out. We’re here for you—always. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.