Debit Cards compromised at Bank in OC

Debit cards from a bank in Oconee County have been compromised.  About 5% of Community First Bank’s customers had card numbers stolen in June and July.  Officials with the bank report that the thefts occurred during routine merchant transactions. Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are investigating. According to a statement from the bank, the investigation is delving into possible criminal activity related to other unauthorized transactions involving debit card activity in the area.  Community First Bank President and CEO Fred Shepherd stressed that none of the bank’s systems were compromised and says the bank moved quickly to respond to customers reporting unauthorized charges and withdrawals. Old debit cards were immediately canceled, however, the time in re-issuing new cards can be several business days. The bank is preparing to mail letters expressing regret what has happened and the imposition that it has caused customers.