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Archive for category: News

Community, Member News, News

Krystal Kubichka Joins Bank First as Assistant Vice President – Retail Banking

Krystal Kubichka

Bank First (NASDAQ: BFC) is pleased to welcome Krystal Kubichka as Assistant Vice President – Retail Banking. Krystal brings 25 years of customer service experience, including 13 years in banking. Her background includes roles as a teller, banker, and branch manager, along with eight years of consumer lending experience and six years in mortgage lending. She specializes in working with first-time homebuyers and guiding clients through creative construction lending options. In her new role at Bank First, Krystal will support retail banking initiatives, helping individuals and families find financial solutions that align with their goals while strengthening customer relationships and contributing to the Bank’s growth in the Green Bay market.

“We’re excited to welcome Krystal to the Bank,” said Bill Rehn, Vice President – Retail Market Manager at Bank First. “Her experience across all areas of banking, customer-focused approach, and leadership in the community adds strength to our team and aligns with our relationship-based approach to banking.”

Krystal earned an associate’s degree in financial institutions management from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay. She is an active community member, serving as Board President of the Mandolin Foundation and contributing to its Fundraising and Construction Committees. Krystal is also a member of the Education Committee for the Brown County Home Builders Association. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, baking, crafting, hunting, fishing, hiking, and vacationing with her family.

For more information about Bank First, visit www.bankfirst.com.

July 16, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-16 08:49:152025-07-16 08:49:15Krystal Kubichka Joins Bank First as Assistant Vice President – Retail Banking
Compliance, News

Acceptable Forms of Customer ID for CIP Purposes

By Scott Birrenkott

While there have been no changes to Customer Identification Program (CIP) requirements, WBA legal is frequently asked: what forms of identification are acceptable for purposes of verifying a customer’s identity? The short answer is that it depends on bank policy. Meaning that theoretically, any form of ID could potentially be used to verify a customer’s identity, and meet CIP requirements.

In order to understand why, it helps to start with the basics of CIP. As part of compliance with Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) regulatory requirements, banks must have a written CIP policy. The more specific components are that a CIP policy must include risk-based procedures to verify the identity of each customer at account-opening. At a minimum, each program must obtain the name, date of birth, address, and identification number from each customer. This information must be verified, using documentary, non-documentary, or a combination of both methods, depending on bank’s procedures.

When relying upon documentary methods to verify a customer’s identity, a bank’s policy must specify which documents to obtain. Similarly, if procedures permit non-documentary methods, a bank’s procedures must specify which methods to use. A bank need not establish the accuracy of every element of identifying information obtained, but it must verify enough information to form a reasonable belief that it knows the true identity of the customer. For most customers who are individuals, banks typically review an unexpired government-issued form of identification evidencing a customer’s nationality or residence and bearing a photograph or similar safeguard. Non-documentary methods may include contacting a customer, or otherwise independently verifying the customer’s identity through other sources.

BSA requirements don’t get much more specific than that. Meaning, they don’t specify which forms of identification can or cannot be used. After all, banks can use documentary or non-documentary methods. A non-documentary method, for example, being the fact that a customer might be a neighbor of yours. Whether a bank can verify a customer’s identity based on the fact that they are an employee’s neighbor isn’t addressed by BSA directly – it’s addressed by bank policy. The same applies to documentary methods. Meaning, all forms of verification depend on bank policy, and thus which forms of identification are acceptable for CIP purposes fully depends on each bank’s CIP policy.

As described previously, perhaps the most common form of verification is a driver’s license. However, that’s not the only acceptable form of identification. Any form of identification which meets the considerations above and, ultimately, bank’s CIP policy is potentially an acceptable form of identification. In consideration of this, banks may encounter unique forms of identification. In addition to a state-issued driver’s license or other state-issued ID card, some examples include a passport or alien ID card. There are also a variety of forms issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. For example, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security may provide certain records to refugees or asylees, who may also possess identification documents through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. These, and other forms of identification may be acceptable for CIP purposes if bank policy permits. Lastly, don’t forget the possibility of non-documentary methods. The types of verification a bank uses will be tailored to its risk considerations and, likely, its customer base. For example, if a bank serves a community with an Amish population, it may encounter customers who don’t have any form of physical identification at all. In these situations, and others, consider what bank policy requires in order to properly identify and verify customers.

Birrenkott is the WBA director – legal

July 16, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Dark-Blue-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-16 07:23:182025-07-16 07:23:18Acceptable Forms of Customer ID for CIP Purposes
Community, Education, News

Four Wisconsin Students Earn 2025 WBF Spring Scholarship

Read more
July 15, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Blue-on-Lime-Green.jpg 972 1920 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-15 15:38:532025-07-15 15:38:53Four Wisconsin Students Earn 2025 WBF Spring Scholarship
News, Resources

A New Tax Advantage for Banks: 25% Interest Exclusion Explained

Wisconsin Bankers Association in collaboration with Wipfli, LLP: Lindsey Sabelko and Zak Hanken. Wipfli, LLP, is a WBA Silver Associate Member

Wisconsin’s community banks have long been a cornerstone of the state’s rural and agricultural economy. A new federal tax provision introduced under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R.1) signed into law on July 4, 2025, offers an opportunity for financial institutions engaged in rural and agricultural lending to strengthen that impact. Section 139K of the Internal Revenue Code allows qualified lenders to exclude 25% of interest income earned on eligible rural and agricultural real estate loans from federal taxable income. This measure is intended to promote increased lending activity in rural areas by providing a tax incentive to participating institutions.

Eligibility Criteria for Lenders
The definition of a “qualified lender” is intentionally broad, ensuring a wide range of financial institutions can benefit from the new tax exclusion. Eligible entities include FDIC-insured banks and savings associations, state- or federally regulated insurance companies, U.S.-based subsidiaries of bank or insurance holding companies, and certain federally chartered institutions within the Farm Credit System. This inclusive approach is particularly advantageous for Wisconsin-based lenders, many of whom already serve rural and agricultural markets and are well-positioned to take advantage of this incentive.

Loan Qualifications
To qualify for the 25% interest exclusion, a loan must be secured by real estate classified as rural or agricultural, issued by a qualified lender to a U.S. customer, and originated after July 4, 2025. The exclusion applies to interest earned during tax years ending after July 4, 2025, and before January 1, 2029. While the borrower does not need to be a farmer or operate an agricultural business, the collateral must meet the rural or agricultural criteria.

Specifically, “rural or agricultural real estate” includes (i) any real property substantially used for the production of one or more agricultural products, (ii) any real property substantially used in the trade or business of fishing or seafood processing, and (iii) any aquaculture facility. These definitions ensure the exclusion targets loans supporting core agricultural and rural economic activities.

It is important to note that refinanced loans are not eligible for the exclusion under the current guidelines.

Interest Expense Limitations
Section 139K modifies the application of Section 265 of the Internal Revenue Code, which traditionally disallows deductions for expenses related to tax-exempt income. Under this provision, lenders are prohibited from deducting expenses associated with the portion of interest income that is excluded from taxable income. The expense disallowance is calculated based on 25% of the tax-exempt loan’s adjusted basis.

State Tax Conformity
Wisconsin already provides a state-level exemption for certain commercial and agricultural loan income; that exemption remains unchanged by the new federal Section 139K provision. Although both aim to encourage lending in key sectors, they operate independently. Wisconsin does not automatically conform to federal tax law, and its treatment of loan income will stay the same unless the state legislature takes specific action to adopt the new federal provision. Financial institutions should continue to track and report federal and state tax benefits separately.

Implications for Financial Reporting
It is equally important to consider how these changes affect financial reporting. The exclusion of a portion of interest income under this provision introduces specific considerations for both C corporations and S corporations.

  • C Corporations
    For C corporations, the 25% interest exclusion reduces taxable income, thereby lowering the current tax expense reported on the income statement through the tax provision calculation. Because this exclusion represents a permanent book-to-tax difference rather than a temporary timing difference, it does not give rise to a deferred tax liability.
  • S Corporations
    For S corporations that are treated as pass-through entities, the exclusion reduces the taxable income reported on shareholders’ Schedule K-1s. The deduction may influence the calculation of distributable income and affect shareholder basis.

Strategic Considerations
Financial institutions are encouraged to review their loan portfolios and origination strategies to identify opportunities to benefit from the Section 139K interest exclusion. Given Wisconsin’s strong agricultural presence and extensive rural lending activity, this provision may offer both tax savings and strategic advantages. Institutions should consult with their trusted tax advisors to explore planning opportunities and accurate financial reporting.

July 15, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Untitled-3_Blue.jpg 972 1920 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-15 07:49:012025-07-15 15:40:03A New Tax Advantage for Banks: 25% Interest Exclusion Explained
Member News, News

Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Human Resources Committee Chair

Lindsey Growette Stingle, SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer with National Bank of Commerce, is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Banker Association (WBA) Human Resources Committee.

Lindsey Growette Stingle

As steps into her new role, WBA asked her a few questions to help members learn more about her.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?

My banking journey began at National Bank of Commerce (NBC) in 2011, when I was hired to learn payroll. Over the past nearly 15 years, I’ve grown with the organization, serving in a variety of HR roles. In 2019, I joined NBC’s executive leadership team, where I continue to advocate for the value of HR in driving organizational success.

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA Retail Committee?

Since joining the WBA HR Committee in 2021, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a dedicated group of HR professionals who are passionate about supporting Wisconsin’s banking community. As chair, I’m most looking forward to expanding the tools, resources, and peer connections that help HR leaders navigate challenges and build trust within their organizations. I also see a meaningful opportunity to elevate the voice of HR in community banks, particularly in institutions where HR is not yet represented at the executive level. By highlighting the strategic value HR brings, we can help shape stronger, more resilient organizations.

Your favorite quote?

I don’t know if it’s my favorite quote, but a quote that has stuck with me is from Jack Welch: “Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.”

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?

I don’t watch much TV, and when I am walking or driving, I tend to turn off the noise and let my mind wander – or I’ll listen to music. That said, I’ve enjoyed a few episodes of The Mel Robbins Podcast. I appreciate how she blends practical tools with research-backed insights. As for TV, I did watch and loved Ted Lasso – the leadership lessons and heart in that show resonated with me.

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”

Enjoying the lake with my family!

July 15, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Untitled-3_Blue.jpg 972 1920 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-15 07:39:152025-07-15 07:39:15Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Human Resources Committee Chair
Community, Member News, News

Voegeli Joins FNBT Relationship Banking Team

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) is pleased to announce that Toni Voegeli has joined the bank as Assistant Vice President, Relationship Banking Officer. In this role, Toni will serve customers in FNBT’s West Market, covering the Monroe and Argyle, Wisconsin branches.

Toni Voegeli

Toni brings more than two decades of banking experience, including her most recent role as a Branch Manager at another local bank.  Her deep knowledge of financial products and dedication to personalized service reflect FNBT’s core values — Dependable, Approachable, and Resilient. As part of the Relationship Banking Team, she will provide thoughtful, customized solutions that help customers achieve financial success through every stage of life.

A long-time resident of Monroe, Toni is deeply invested in the community. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Kiwanis of Monroe, is Co-President of the Monroe Noon Optimists Club, and acts as an ambassador for the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. Her strong community ties and service-minded approach embody FNBT’s commitment to be “Always Here” offering trusted guidance, lasting relationships, and local support.

Toni is based at FNBT’s Monroe, Wisconsin location and is now welcoming customers who value accessible, knowledgeable support from a bank that’s been serving local families and businesses for generations.

July 15, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-15 07:36:132025-07-15 07:36:13Voegeli Joins FNBT Relationship Banking Team
Community, Member News, News

Peoples State Bank Promoted Amber Gober and Gary Matz

Peoples State Bank has promoted Amber Gober to branch manager of the Stewart Avenue and Rib Mountain locations. Gary Matz has also been promoted to assistant branch manager in Rib Mountain.

Amber Gober

Gober has been in the banking industry for over 20 years, joining the Peoples team in 2016. She has managed the Stewart Avenue branch since 2021. In addition to helping customers with their various financial needs, she’s responsible for enhancing customer relationships and driving community initiatives.

Gary Matz

Matz has been with Peoples for 10 years, most recently as a personal banker at Stewart Avenue. In his new role, he’ll be responsible for leading branch staff and achieving customer success.

“We’re thrilled to promote our employees from within the organization. Amber’s dedication and professionalism, along with her go-getter attitude, will make this a seamless leadership transition. Gary’s experience and deep understanding of our customers’ needs make him an ideal team player to manage our Rib Mountain team,” said Corey Barnes, Peoples State Bank vice president and retail sales manager.

“I’m honored to take on this new role and continue building strong relationships with our customers and community,” said Gober. “I look forward to working with our talented team to ensure we continue to deliver the highest level of service,” said Matz.

Gober has been part of the Wausau community for over 40 years. She’s an ambassador of the Greater Wausau Area Chamber of Commerce, a member of the women’s leadership committee, and a recent graduate of the transformational leadership program. Matz has been part of the Wausau community since 2012. He’s actively involved with the Wausau Woodchucks, Ignite Softball, and Knights of Columbus.

July 15, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-15 07:34:572025-07-15 08:38:16Peoples State Bank Promoted Amber Gober and Gary Matz
Community, Member News, News

Associated Bank Adds Chris Sager as Senior Vice President, Private Banking Group, Manager of Professional Services

Chris Sager

Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) (“Associated”) recently announced Chris Sager has joined the bank as senior vice president, Private Banking Group manager of Professional Services. In this role, Sager will work closely across teams and all Associated Bank markets to bring structure, insights, and focus on how to attract and serve clients in the professional services sector across the bank’s footprint.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Chris to the team,” said Stacy Stecker, senior vice president and director of Private Banking at Associated Bank. “Our clients value trusted relationships and personalized service, and Chris’s expertise and commitment to understanding individual financial goals make him a strong addition to our team of dedicated advisors.”

Sager joins Associated from US Bank, where he served as vice president, Business Banking sales manager. In his 18 years at US Bank, he led a team of seven business banking relationship managers, drove top loan production and loan growth, and total revenue among three Wisconsin business banking teams. He was repeatedly a “Legends of Possible” top sales manager nationwide.

“The team at Associated Bank reflects the same values I bring to my client relationships—personalized attention, thoughtful strategy, and a commitment to long-term success,” said Sager. “I’m excited to join an organization that prioritizes tailored financial solutions and puts clients at the center of everything we do.”

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree and MBA at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

July 14, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-14 08:09:462025-07-14 08:09:46Associated Bank Adds Chris Sager as Senior Vice President, Private Banking Group, Manager of Professional Services
Community, Member News, News

North Shore Bank Pewaukee Parking Lot Initiative Raises Funds for the Pewaukee Predators’ Girls Select Fast Pitch Softball Program

Branch parking lot continues to help address public parking needs downtown while investing back in community

North Shore Bank recently announced a donation of over $2,000 to the Pewaukee Predators Select Softball program, a volunteer-based girls select fast pitch softball organization. This donation comes from the proceeds of the community bank’s give-back metered parking system that was installed in 2022 at the North Shore Bank Pewaukee branch, located at 120 W. Wisconsin Ave.

The North Shore Bank Pewaukee parking lot transitioned from a privately-owned parking lot to the community-give-back parking system, with the goal of drawing visitors to downtown Pewaukee with accessible parking, while returning proceeds right back to the local community. The Pewaukee Predators, a youth sports program, were selected randomly by the bank to receive the funds. Last year, the Friends of the Parks of Pewaukee received the funds from the initiative to the Fourth of July fireworks.

“When we transitioned our parking lot to this model, our goal was to create a win-win-win opportunity for our Pewaukee community, which we’ve been lucky enough to serve for 29 years,” said Anne Kagerah, assistant vice president and Pewaukee branch manager for North Shore Bank. “We’re excited to be supporting the Pewaukee Predators whose goals include promoting ideals of community, integrity, responsibility, hard work, sportsmanship, and teamwork.”

The initiative aims to support local tourism activity, businesses, and residents with all parking proceeds reinvested in the Pewaukee area community through North Shore Bank’s Bank on Kindness® initiative. North Shore Bank customers always have free parking in the lot both during and after business hours.

July 14, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-14 08:00:222025-07-14 08:06:38North Shore Bank Pewaukee Parking Lot Initiative Raises Funds for the Pewaukee Predators’ Girls Select Fast Pitch Softball Program
News, Resources

Inside the Fight Against Fraud: Highlights From WBA’s First Fraud Summit

By Katie Reiser

As fraud becomes more prevalent and complex, many Wisconsin bankers voiced the need for more practical insights and support. In response, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) hosted its first Fraud Summit on June 3, 2025. The one-day event brought bankers together to dig into today’s biggest fraud threats and how to fight back — from cyberattacks and scams to regulatory changes and prevention tactics. The summit was created based on direct input from members who said they needed more resources to stay ahead of fraud trends. Strong turnout and engaged discussion underscored how relevant the event was, and based on early and enthusiastic feedback, WBA is exploring hosting another Fraud Summit in the future.

Bankers Reflect on Takeaways and Impact
Two attendees from Wolf River Community Bank shared their feedback from the Summit. Diane Moen-Ross, electronic banking supervisor, said, “I found the Fraud Summit to be both entertaining and insightful. I had a few things make me really think about my day-to-day habits and look at things differently from a security level for the bank after hearing from the speakers. I found the information they shared to be helpful in protecting the bank and looking out
or our customers.” She added, “I also enjoyed the humor they put into their presentations.”

Her colleague Kyra Baeten, BSA & risk analyst, offered this take, “The summit was amazing, and I was truly in my element! It exceeded my expectations in every way. The presenters were raw, real, and incredibly insightful, which went beyond just surface level discussions. It pushed me to think beyond my current ‘fraud box’ and how to better protect myself, my institution, and the communities we serve.” She summarized her experience, “I left feeling inspired, energized, and already looking forward to next year’s Summit!”

SHAZAM’s Kern: How Froud Follows Shifting Payment Trends
In the opening session, “Where Payments Go, Fraud Will Follow,” Diana Kern, AAP, senior financial solutions consultant at SHAZAM, explored how changing consumer payment habits are driving new fraud risks. For the first time, cash is no longer the most common method for purchases under $25, according to the Federal Reserve’s 2024 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice. Card payments now lead the way, and nearly half of person-to-person payments are made through mobile apps.

Kern walked attendees through how debit transactions have evolved — from magnetic stripe to chip and contactless cards, from physical cards to digital wallets, and from card-present to card-not-present (CNP) scenarios. These changes have big implications. In 2024, 98% of debit card fraud reported by SHAZAM clients occurred in CNP environments.

She pointed to BIN attacks, account probing, and fraud targeting specific merchant codes (like digital goods and money transfer services) as key issues. While chip technology has helped reduce counterfeit fraud, fallback transactions using magnetic stripes remain vulnerable.

Kern stressed the value of layered fraud defenses, such as real-time blocking, cardholder alerts, and well-calibrated decline rules. She also noted that data breaches — even those unrelated to payments — can give scammers the fuel they need to launch convincing social engineering attacks.

ABA’s Smith: Social Engineering, Check Fraud, and AI Threats
Patrick Smith, senior vice president of fraud operations with the American Bankers Association (ABA), gave an overview of current fraud challenges, including social engineering, check fraud, and emerging risks tied to artificial intelligence.
Smith made it clear that while banks are doing more than any other sector to protect consumers, they can’t do it alone. Responsibility must also be shared by telecom companies, social media platforms, and lawmakers.

He noted that social engineering scams have become harder to detect. Many now mimic trusted environments, build rapport with victims, and create a sense of urgency — making them highly effective. Check fraud, meanwhile, continues to grow despite a downturn in check use, now accounting for 66% of payment fraud. Mail theft and counterfeit or altered checks are key drivers.

AI is making an already complex fraud landscape even more challenging. Smith cited examples like deepfakes (providing a chilling example of how easy it is to clone voices), spoofed identity checks, and realistic fake IDs, all of which make scams faster to perpetuate and more convincing. He urged banks to continue building robust defenses by ensuring their teams are familiar with current threats and working closely with trusted vendors.

Smith shared that ABA is calling for a national fraud prevention strategy that includes establishing a White House Office of Fraud and Scam Prevention, increasing FCC enforcement regarding customer reported spam texts, and bringing in state and local law enforcement to improve prosecution rates.

Iannarelli: Cyber Vigilance in a High-Risk Environment
Former FBI Special Agent John Iannarelli, Esq., CSP (aka FBI John) gave a candid assessment of the cybersecurity landscape. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, last year set records for data breaches, with over 15 billion records compromised.

Top threats include identity theft, phishing, ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), Internet of Things (IoT which are the internet-connected devices embedded in everyday objects which are sending and receiving data), and mobile-device related fraud. According to an FBI report, BEC alone cost U.S. businesses $2.4 billion last year, with cases up 270%. Iannarelli referenced the 2024 ransomware attack on Patelco Credit Union as a reminder of the financial and reputational damage such events can cause.

He also flagged the role of AI deepfakes in expanding cyber risk, highlighting a $25 million fraudulent wire transfer driven by a deepfake impersonation. Still, he warned that internal threats remain significant. About 75% of breaches are tied to insiders — often well-meaning but untrained employees.

To help reduce exposure, Iannarelli encouraged banks to focus on staff training, establish strong policies, use multifactor authentication, and maintain a tested incident response plan.

Ayotte: Stop Social Engineering Before It Starts
Michael Ayotte, senior cybersecurity consultant with Wipfli LLP and U.S. Special Forces veteran, focused on the human side of fraud — particularly how scammers manipulate people, not just systems. He explained how criminals often start with publicly available data from sources like obituaries, social media, and bank websites to piece together convincing identities.

Ayotte reminded attendees that identity verification processes should never give away clues. “Never disclose account numbers over the phone,” he said. If a caller can’t be verified, staff should direct them to a branch.

His session also highlighted common phishing tactics: urgency, secrecy, unusual grammar, and lookalike email addresses from company executives. Ayotte recommended physical security protocols too — from screening vendors to checking IDs — and stressed the need for ongoing training and internal testing through simulated phishing and security drills. He shared his own experiences conducting physical security audits for clients that were eye-opening and likely prompted many attendees to review their workplace policies.

His message was clear: it is crucial to empower employees to act on suspicious activity even though their focus is typically on customer service. There needs to be a balance between the two. Policies and technology matter, but awareness and a questioning mindset when something seems off are just as critical.

What’s Next?
WBA plans to follow up with a future article sharing practical tips and takeaways from the Summit, with additional insights from WBA’s Director – Legal, Scott Birrenkott. Birrenkott will share how Wisconsin banks can apply these lessons in the face of shifting fraud risks. Birrenkott
commented, “A lot of great information was shared at the WBA Fraud Summit. It just goes to show the value of gathering and sharing information. WBA will continue to provide updates and resources to help banks tackle the challenge of staying one step ahead of criminals.”

July 11, 2025/by Katie Reiser
https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Triangle-Backgrounds_Yellow-on-Light-Blue.jpg 972 1921 Katie Reiser https://www.wisbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Wisconsin-Bankers-Association-logo.svg Katie Reiser2025-07-11 08:24:212025-07-11 08:24:21Inside the Fight Against Fraud: Highlights From WBA’s First Fraud Summit
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  • Krystal Kubichka Joins Bank First as Assistant Vice President – Retail Banking
  • Acceptable Forms of Customer ID for CIP Purposes
  • Four Wisconsin Students Earn 2025 WBF Spring Scholarship
  • A New Tax Advantage for Banks: 25% Interest Exclusion Explained
  • Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Human Resources Committee Chair

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Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

Essential Website Cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

Other external services

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

Privacy Policy

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

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