**Cadence Bank Impersonation and Mortgage Scam Campaign**
This scam campaign involves fraudsters impersonating Cadence Bank, a legitimate financial institution with 297 consumer complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for checking or savings account issues. The campaign operates through two connected phone numbers: 888-803-2351 and 850-507-8452, which have been reported together in consumer complaints. While neither number has generated formal FTC complaints yet, community reports indicate an active fraudulent operation targeting homeowners with deceptive mortgage-related communications.
The scammers employ sophisticated tactics designed to create urgency and legitimacy. According to community reports, victims receive official-looking documents through USPS that appear to be "final notices" from affiliated companies acting on behalf of mortgage lenders. These documents, while resembling checks, explicitly state "THIS IS NOT A CHECK" and reference an "Allocated Waiver" that will allegedly be revoked within seven days. The materials direct recipients to call 888-803-2351, creating a time-sensitive scenario designed to pressure homeowners into immediate action. The connection between the two phone numbers suggests a coordinated operation using multiple contact points to appear more legitimate.
The consumer impact appears focused on homeowners with existing mortgages, as the fraudsters specifically target individuals by impersonating companies affiliated with their current mortgage lenders. This targeting strategy suggests the scammers have access to homeowner databases or are conducting broad mailings to residential addresses. The use of the legitimate Cadence Bank name adds credibility to their scheme, potentially confusing consumers who may have actual relationships with the bank or mistake the communication for legitimate correspondence from a mortgage servicer.
To protect against this campaign, consumers should verify any mortgage-related communications by contacting their actual mortgage servicer directly using phone numbers from official statements or websites, never the numbers provided in suspicious mailings. Legitimate mortgage companies do not typically send urgent final notices about mysterious "waivers" or use check-like documents for official communications. If contacted by these numbers, hang up immediately and do not provide personal information. Do not click any links in related emails or text messages. Report suspicious calls to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and unwanted calls to the FCC. Consumers can verify if a phone number is associated with scam activity by searching online complaint databases and community reporting sites.
This campaign presents a moderate threat level due to its targeted approach and use of legitimate financial institution branding. The physical mailing component and impersonation of Cadence Bank increase the potential for consumer confusion and financial loss. Consumers should remain vigilant about unsolicited mortgage-related communications and always verify through independent channels before responding to urgent financial notices or providing personal information to unfamiliar callers.