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Verbal Password

Add an Extra Layer of Security with a Verbal Password

At Exchange Bank, protecting your financial information is one of our top priorities. As scams become more sophisticated—especially those involving spoofed phone calls that appear to come from a trusted number—we want to ensure our customers have the tools they need to stay safe. One of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance your account security is by setting up a Verbal Password.

What Is a Verbal Password?

A verbal password is a secret word or phrase that only you and Exchange Bank know. It acts as a personal code that helps verify your identity when discussing account details over the phone.

Here's how it works:

  • When you call us: We'll confirm your identity by asking for your verbal password and one other means of verification, such as the last four digits of your debit card.

  • When we call you: You can ask us for your verbal password—something only an Exchange Bank employee would know. It’s a great way to confirm that you’re really speaking with the bank, not an impersonator.

This added layer of protection is especially important as phone-based scams become more prevalent, often tricking victims by mimicking legitimate bank numbers or pretending to be a trusted source.

Why It Matters

Criminals are getting better at impersonating businesses and manipulating caller ID to make their numbers look official. With a verbal password on your account, you gain an extra safeguard that can help stop fraud before it starts.

Think of it as a security handshake between you and your bank.

How to Set Yours Up

Setting a verbal password is quick and easy:

  • Call or visit your local branch.

  • Speak with a team member and request to add a verbal password to your account.

  • Choose a word or phrase that’s easy for you to remember, but hard for others to guess.

If you already have a verbal password on file—thank you! You're helping us keep your information safe.

At Exchange Bank, your financial security is just as important as your financial success. Adding a verbal password is one more way we’re helping protect what matters most to you.

Call or stop by your local branch today and take this simple step to protect your account. We’re here to help.

 

Scam Tactics & Statistics: What You Should Know

Caller ID spoofing is when a scammer makes it look like they're calling from a trusted number—like your bank—when they’re not. They may ask for personal information or pressure you to take immediate action.

If you ever feel unsure, hang up and call your local branch directly. Be sure to verify the number you use—do not rely on a phone number provided by the caller, or one found in an email or text. To reach us directly, call 478-452-4531. You can also send us a secure message through your online or mobile banking app. A real Exchange Bank employee will never pressure you, demand personal information unexpectedly, or threaten you.

Look out for high-pressure language, requests for full debit card numbers, PINs, or login credentials, and claims that your account is in danger unless you act immediately.

Because people trust their banks. Scammers use that trust to trick you into giving up personal information or sending money.

According to the FTC, imposter scams were the top reported scam category in 2023, with over 850,000 reports. Roughly 1 in 5 victims lost money—totaling nearly $3 billion.

Yes. In recent years, phone scams have become more frequent and more convincing, often using stolen data and advanced software to sound legitimate.

Absolutely. A verbal password adds a layer of identity verification that scammers can’t fake—especially when paired with other account protections.