At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we are proud to support our nation’s service members and their families- not just with financial services, but with education and protection against growing threats.  

Military families are often targeted by scammers due to their unique lifestyles: frequent moves, deployments, and access to special benefits. During Military Consumer Month, we want to spotlight the most common scams targeting those who serve, and how to avoid falling victim.

Fake Military Housing & Rental Scams

Scammers create fake listings online, often for homes near military bases, and ask for deposits or personal information up front. These listings are often too good to be true and vanish once money is sent. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Never wire money of pay via gift card for housing. 
• Verify listings through official housing channels or local – realtors.  
• Research the property’s actual address and landlord.  

Impersonation of Military Personnel

Scammers pretend to be service members needing help or romance, then they ask for money- often targeting military spouses or civilians. Sometimes, they steal real military identities to add credibility.  Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Be cautious of strangers on social media asking for money or gift cards. 
• Don’t share personal details or financial info with someone you have never met in person. 
• Report fake military profiles or romance scams to the platform and to authorities. 

Veteran Benefits Scam

Scammers promise to help veterans access or speed up their benefits- for a hefty “fee”- or offer phony financial services that claim to maximize VA payouts. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Never pay upfront fees for help with VA benefits- legitimate assistance is available for free through official sites.
• Be skeptical of anyone promising to “maximize” your benefits or speed up the process in exchange for money.
• Always verify the credentials of individuals or companies offering help with benefits by checking with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or www.va.gov.