August 1, 2025

Scams Surge in Bryan-College Station Targeting Businesses

News Summary

Bryan-College Station is experiencing a troubling rise in scams, particularly aimed at local businesses that received Paycheck Protection Program loans during the pandemic. Financial institutions report significant losses due to sophisticated fraud schemes, with at least six businesses affected, totaling millions in losses. Individual customers are also warned about potential scams. Law enforcement is urging vigilance, especially as scams tend to peak around major events, and emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities to combat these crimes effectively.

Bryan-College Station is witnessing a troubling increase in scams targeting local businesses and online buyers, raising alarms among financial institutions and law enforcement. Recent reports indicate that banks in the area are experiencing a surge in sophisticated fraud schemes aimed primarily at businesses that received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Officials reveal that a fraud ring is exploiting public records from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to pinpoint businesses that benefited from PPP loans, subsequently targeting their respective banks for sensitive information. Austin Bryan, the Regional President of First Financial Bank Bryan-College Station, stated that at least six customers have reported being affected, with cumulative losses amounting to over $1.5 to $2 million in just a few weeks. In some cases, scammers have tried to siphon nearly $300,000 from vulnerable companies.

While businesses are facing immediate threats, individual customers are also being cautioned to stay alert, as they too could be targeted. Banks are tightening their efforts to combat fraud, especially as last year, they faced more financial losses from scams than from loan defaults. Customers are reminded to avoid responding to suspicious messages and to refrain from sharing sensitive information over unsolicited calls, texts, or emails. Regularly changing passwords is also recommended to bolster security against potential scams.

Rising Online Scams in Brazos County

In addition to business scams, Brazos County authorities have identified a rising trend in online scams, particularly through social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace. A recent incident involved multiple buyers who arrived at a local resident’s home to collect a nonexistent go-kart, each losing $150 in the process. Law enforcement encourages skepticism towards offers that convey urgency or emotional appeal since these are common tactics employed by scammers.

Keeping Ahead of Evolving Scams

Local law enforcement is actively working to mitigate the risks posed by evolving scams. They are particularly mindful of fraudulent calls claiming missed jury duty, where scammers demand immediate payment. Reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement is emphasized as a crucial step in combating these crimes. A notable incident involves a Florida man charged with facilitating phishing scams that targeted employees nationwide, resulting in significant property and information theft valued at millions.

Impact of Phishing Scams Nationwide

The U.S. Department of Justice has identified phishing scams as a considerable threat, incurring losses of nearly $19 million in the last year alone. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has also highlighted substantial financial losses due to identity theft and online fraud across various states, including Texas. As such, victims are urged to report these crimes urgently to limit further repercussions.

Caution with Online Purchases

The Better Business Bureau has issued warnings to consumers about exercising caution when buying tickets through third-party sellers, especially for high-demand events. Scammers can create counterfeit tickets with misleading barcodes, causing fans significant financial losses. Buyers are advised to utilize reputable sources for tickets and verify the legitimacy of sellers and platforms. When purchasing from third-party sites, secure payment methods that provide protection against fraud are encouraged.

Vigilance During Sporting Events

Reports of scams tend to peak around popular sporting events, leading law enforcement to encourage heightened vigilance among fans. Authorities continue to stress the dire consequences of disclosing personal information to scammers. Such actions can lead to identity theft, impacting victims long after they have been duped.

The recent increase in scams provides an urgent reminder for the community to adopt safeguarding measures when conducting business and making online purchases. By staying informed and exercising caution, residents and businesses in Bryan-College Station can better protect themselves from becoming victims of these schemes.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER

The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER

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