u.s. Department of Defense</a></p>","Archive":{"Date":"2024-03-01T00:00:00","Month":"March","Year":2024,"Slug":"march-2024","Name":"March 2024"},"IndexId":1352,"CardImage":{"Id":2526,"Name":"Shutterstock 539629225","Alt":"Shutterstock 539629225","MediaHeight":1735,"MediaWidth":2600,"MediaUrl":"/media/tzejl3ug/shutterstock_539629225.jpg","CropHeight":200,"CropWidth":400,"CropUrl":"/media/tzejl3ug/shutterstock_539629225.jpg?width=400&height=200&v=1da6a87448a6260&format=webp","WebpFormat":true,"NoCrop":false,"VerticalFocalPoint":50.0,"HorizontalFocalPoint":50.0},"CardImgTag":"<img class=\"lazyload\" width=\"400\" height=\"200\"data-src=\"/media/tzejl3ug/shutterstock_539629225.jpg?width=400&height=200&v=1da6a87448a6260&format=webp&quality=80\" alt=\"Shutterstock 539629225\" />","Headline":"Top 10 Internet Safety Rules & What Not to Do Online","Standfirst":"Don't be a victim! Malicious cyber actors may leverage your home network to gain access to personal, private, and confidential information. Help protect yourself, your family, and your work by practicing cybersecurity-aware behaviors, observing some basic configuration guidelines, and implementing the following mitigations on your home network.","CardDescription":"Don't be a victim! Malicious cyber actors may leverage your home network to gain access to personal, private, and confidential information. Help protect your...","Category":{"Name":"Fraud and Security","Id":2260,"Slug":"fraud-and-security-2260","HasCategory":true},"PublishDate":"2024-03-01T00:00:00Z","PublishDateString":"March 1, 2024","Id":2524,"Url":"/resources/learning-center/top-10-internet-safety-rules-what-not-to-do-online/","CardLinkText":"Learn More","HasArticle":true},{"Keywords":["air","always","and","appealing","beware","can","cautious","dating","enhance","even","help","how","identify","important","knowing","life","love","may","navigate","not","online","put","remember","risk","romance","safeguard","scams","securely","seeking","seem","should","signs","steps","taking","that","the","though","when","world","you","your","yourself"],"BannerImage":{"Id":2510,"Name":"Positive Woman Using Smartphone In Cafe 2023 11 27 05 34 48 Utc","Alt":"Positive Woman Using Smartphone In Cafe 2023 11 27 05 34 48 Utc","MediaHeight":1735,"MediaWidth":2600,"MediaUrl":"/media/fvohkol3/positive-woman-using-smartphone-in-cafe-2023-11-27-05-34-48-utc.jpg","CropHeight":350,"CropWidth":950,"CropUrl":"/media/fvohkol3/positive-woman-using-smartphone-in-cafe-2023-11-27-05-34-48-utc.jpg?cc=0,0.17781687094669088,0,0.27015158439361425&width=950&height=350&v=1da5f5a83f83c70&format=webp","WebpFormat":true,"NoCrop":false,"VerticalFocalPoint":50.0,"HorizontalFocalPoint":50.0},"ContentHTML":"<p class=\"MsoNormal\">In the digital age, finding love is just a click away. With the rise of online dating platforms, meeting potential partners has never been easier. However, this convenience has given rise to a new threat – romance scammers. These scammers prey on unsuspecting individuals, promising love and companionship while ultimately leaving victims heartbroken and financially devastated.</p>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\"> </p>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\"><img src=../_/media/ixocdrrl/untitled-design-159594.html?rmode=max&width=782&height=391\%22 alt=\"\" width=\"782\" height=\"391\"></p>\n<h2 class=\"MsoNormal headline\"><strong>Understanding Romance Scams</strong></h2>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">Romance scams operate on the premise of false identities and fabricated relationships. Scammers create fake profiles, often with stolen photos and information, designed to entice their victims. These profiles may seem too good to be true, with an abundance of shared interests and an irresistible charm.</p>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">Once the scammer has initiated contact, they will work diligently to establish a close bond with their target. They shower them with compliments and affectionate messages, creating an illusion of a genuine connection. However, there's always a catch – and they delay meeting<strong> </strong>in person due to various excuses.</p>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">As the relationship progresses, the scammer will exploit their victim's emotions to solicit money. They develop<span style=\"font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%;\"> </span>elaborate stories of financial hardship or urgent needs, tugging at the heartstrings of their unsuspecting target. Whether it's for travel expenses, medical emergencies, or debt relief, the request for money is always accompanied by promises of a future together.</p>\n<h2 class=\"MsoNormal headline\"><strong>Signs of a Romance Scam</strong></h2>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">Recognizing a romance scam early is crucial in protecting yourself from potential harm. Here are some red flags to watch out for:</p>\n<ul style=\"margin-top: 0in;\">\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Unwillingness to Meet in Person:</strong> If your online partner consistently avoids face-to-face interactions or makes excuses for not meeting, proceed with caution.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Requests for Money:</strong> Be wary of any requests for financial assistance, especially if they come early in the relationship or seem too urgent to be true.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Inconsistencies in Stories:</strong> Pay attention to inconsistencies or discrepancies in their stories and background information.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Pressure to Act Quickly:</strong> Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring their victims to send money without taking the time to verify the situation.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2 class=\"MsoNormal headline\"><strong>Protect Yourself Against Romance Scams</strong></h2>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">If you suspect that you may be the target of a romance scam, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:</p>\n<ul style=\"margin-top: 0in;\">\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Slow Down and Ask Questions:</strong> Take a step back and assess the situation objectively. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any suspicious behavior.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Conduct Research:</strong> Utilize online tools, such as Google Image Search, to verify the authenticity of their photos and information.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Report Suspicious Activity:</strong> If you believe you've encountered a scammer, report them to the platform where you initially made contact. By doing so, you can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.</li>\n<li class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;\"><strong>Never Send Money:</strong> Under no circumstances should you send money to someone you've met online, especially if you have doubts about their intentions.</li>\n</ul>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\"> </p>\n<p class=\"MsoNormal\">It is important to be cautious when seeking love online, even though it may seem appealing. Knowing how to identify signs of romance scams and taking steps to safeguard yourself can help you navigate the world of online dating securely. Always remember that love should enhance your life, not put it at risk.</p>","Archive":{"Date":"2024-02-01T00:00:00","Month":"February","Year":2024,"Slug":"february-2024","Name":"February 2024"},"IndexId":1352,"CardImage":{"Id":2510,"Name":"Positive Woman Using Smartphone In Cafe 2023 11 27 05 34 48 Utc","Alt":"Positive Woman Using Smartphone In Cafe 2023 11 27 05 34 48 Utc","MediaHeight":1735,"MediaWidth":2600,"MediaUrl":"/media/fvohkol3/positive-woman-using-smartphone-in-cafe-2023-11-27-05-34-48-utc.jpg","CropHeight":200,"CropWidth":400,"CropUrl":"/media/fvohkol3/positive-woman-using-smartphone-in-cafe-2023-11-27-05-34-48-utc.jpg?cc=0,0.03766377745820834,0,0.2131505547893487&width=400&height=200&v=1da5f5a83f83c70&format=webp","WebpFormat":true,"NoCrop":false,"VerticalFocalPoint":50.0,"HorizontalFocalPoint":50.0},"CardImgTag":"<img class=\"lazyload\" width=\"400\" height=\"200\"data-src=\"/media/fvohkol3/positive-woman-using-smartphone-in-cafe-2023-11-27-05-34-48-utc.jpg?cc=0,0.03766377745820834,0,0.2131505547893487&width=400&height=200&v=1da5f5a83f83c70&format=webp&quality=80\" alt=\"Positive Woman Using Smartphone In Cafe 2023 11 27 05 34 48 Utc\" />","Headline":"Love is in the Air: Beware of Online Romance Scams","Standfirst":"It is important to be cautious when seeking love online, even though it may seem appealing. Knowing how to identify signs of romance scams and taking steps to safeguard yourself can help you navigate the world of online dating securely. Always remember that love should enhance your life, not put it at risk.","CardDescription":"It is important to be cautious when seeking love online, even though it may seem appealing. Knowing how to identify signs of romance scams and taking steps t...","Category":{"Name":"Fraud and Security","Id":2260,"Slug":"fraud-and-security-2260","HasCategory":true},"PublishDate":"2024-02-14T00:00:00Z","PublishDateString":"February 14, 2024","Id":2509,"Url":"/resources/learning-center/love-is-in-the-air-beware-of-online-romance-scams/","CardLinkText":"Learn More","HasArticle":true},{"Keywords":["and","announce","appointment","ashley","bank","company","first","jones","loan","morristown","officer","pleased","seal","tennessee","the","trust","welcomes"],"BannerImage":{"Id":2474,"Name":"New Hire Announcement Ashley Jones (400X200) (1)","Alt":"New Hire Announcement Ashley Jones (400X200) (1)","MediaHeight":400,"MediaWidth":800,"MediaUrl":"/media/jgsp3rky/new-hire-announcement_ashley-jones-400x200-1.png","CropHeight":350,"CropWidth":950,"CropUrl":"/media/jgsp3rky/new-hire-announcement_ashley-jones-400x200-1.png?cc=0,0.03386711122695104,0,0.2292907835098911&width=950&height=350&v=1da55409847ef50&format=webp","WebpFormat":true,"NoCrop":false,"VerticalFocalPoint":50.0,"HorizontalFocalPoint":50.0},"ContentHTML":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\">MORRISTOWN, Tenn., Jan.31, 2024 -- First Bank and Trust Company, a diversified financial services firm with assets of $3.14 billion, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Seal Jones as a Loan Officer in Morristown, Tennessee.</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"> </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img src=../_/media/mcajt3c4/ashley-jones3d24.html?rmode=max&width=299&height=400\%22 alt=\"\" width=\"299\" height=\"400\"> <img src=../_/media/klvdydeu/david-slack3d24.html?rmode=max&width=299&height=400\%22 alt=\"\" width=\"299\" height=\"400\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em> Ashley Seal Jones, Loan Officer and David Slack, SVP/City Executive</em></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"> </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Jones has over 14 years of experience in the financial industry and has built a reputation for exceptional customer service and tailored financial solutions. In her new role at First Bank and Trust Company, she will offer customized mortgage and commercial lending solutions in Morristown and the surrounding market areas.</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">“First Bank and Trust Company is extremely excited to have Ashley join us here in Morristown as a Loan Officer. Her primary specialty is Mortgage Loans, and her vast experience in this field will make her a tremendous asset. She will back up the office on Commercial Loans and has many contacts throughout the bank’s footprint. Ashley is ready to make an impact, and she is eager to start taking calls as well as being involved in the community,” stated David E. Slack, Senior Vice President and City Executive.</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Jones's passion for serving others led her to pursue a career in lending and finance. Her approach to building customer relationships has remained consistent throughout her career, even as the industry has evolved. Jones's approach to customer service sets her apart from others in the industry. “I strive to find common ground with people, make them feel at ease, and prioritize their needs. I believe in displaying humility in creating realistic solutions to help my customers grow financially,” stated Jones. </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Jones proactively gives back to her community by supporting small businesses and participating in local food drives, such as Second Harvest of East Tennessee and Meals on Wheels, among many others. She is also a proud member of the Morristown Chamber of Commerce.</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">First Bank and Trust Company is known for offering competitive products and services to the community while maintaining a friendly, personable, and welcoming environment. Ashley Seal Jones's appointment as a Loan Officer will reinforce the bank's commitment to providing exceptional service to Morristown and the surrounding communities.</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"> </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img src=../_/media/vmxfpny3/branch-25-morristown-lpo68fe.html?rmode=max&width=448&height=336\%22 alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"336\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>First Bank and Trust Company Loan Production Office in Morristown, TN</em></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"> </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Jones's office is located at 910 W First North St. in Morristown, Tennessee. She may be reached at <a href=_mailto_anjones%40firstbank.com/__anjones%40firstbank.com_/a_/index.html or by calling (423) 200-4303<a href=../_/(423)%20200-4303/___/a_._/p_/n_p/index.html style=\"text-align: left;\"> </p>\n<h2 class=\"headline\" style=\"text-align: left;\">About First Bank and Trust Company</h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><br>First Bank and Trust Company, one of the top community banks in the United States, is a diversified financial services firm with office locations throughout southwest Virginia and the state’s Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valleys. First Bank and Trust Company also operates throughout northeast Tennessee and North Carolina. Financial solutions are addressed by offering free checking products for personal and business accounts, savings, money markets, and time deposit accounts. Lending solutions are managed by mortgage, agricultural, and commercial lending divisions. Comprehensive wealth management solutions are available through trust and brokerage service representatives. </p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">For more information, visit <a href=../_/our-company/who-we-are/__Who/index.html We Are | First Bank & Trust Company</a> or contact Kaitlyn Widner at <a href=_mailto_kpruitt%40firstbank.com/__kpruitt%40firstbank.com_/a_._/p_/n_p/index.html style=\"text-align: left;\">SOURCE First Bank and Trust Company</p>","Archive":{"Date":"2024-01-01T00:00:00","Month":"January","Year":2024,"Slug":"january-2024","Name":"January 2024"},"IndexId":1352,"CardImage":{"Id":2474,"Name":"New Hire Announcement Ashley Jones (400X200) (1)","Alt":"New Hire Announcement Ashley Jones (400X200) (1)","MediaHeight":400,"MediaWidth":800,"MediaUrl":"/media/jgsp3rky/new-hire-announcement_ashley-jones-400x200-1.png","CropHeight":200,"CropWidth":400,"CropUrl":"/media/jgsp3rky/new-hire-announcement_ashley-jones-400x200-1.png?width=400&height=200&v=1da55409847ef50&format=webp","WebpFormat":true,"NoCrop":false,"VerticalFocalPoint":50.0,"HorizontalFocalPoint":50.0},"CardImgTag":"<img class=\"lazyload\" width=\"400\" height=\"200\"data-src=\"/media/jgsp3rky/new-hire-announcement_ashley-jones-400x200-1.png?width=400&height=200&v=1da55409847ef50&format=webp&quality=80\" alt=\"New Hire Announcement Ashley Jones (400X200) (1)\" />","Headline":"First Bank and Trust Company Welcomes Ashley Seal Jones","Standfirst":"First Bank and Trust Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Seal Jones as a Loan Officer in Morristown, Tennessee.","CardDescription":"First Bank and Trust Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Seal Jones as a Loan Officer in Morristown, Tennessee.","Category":{"Name":"News","Id":1350,"Slug":"news-1350","HasCategory":true},"PublishDate":"2024-01-31T00:00:00Z","PublishDateString":"January 31, 2024","Id":2473,"Url":"/resources/learning-center/first-bank-and-trust-company-welcomes-ashley-seal-jones/","CardLinkText":"Learn More","HasArticle":true}]" v-cloak>
