In a remarkable show of unity and collaboration, several community banks from the Oconee County and Athens-Clarke County markets have come together in an unprecedented partnership to address the growing challenge of fraud impacting customers across all segments.

The coalition—comprised of Oconee State Bank, Classic City Bank, BankSouth, and First American Bank & Trust—marks a rare and inspiring instance of financial institutions “reaching across the aisle” for the greater good of the communities they serve. Additional banks are expected to join the coalition in the months ahead.

Born from shared concern over rising fraud trends, the initiative began with an open discussion among local bank leaders, quickly gaining momentum as institutions recognized the collective power of unity and shared education. The group has since committed to ongoing collaboration, information sharing, and the development of coordinated awareness efforts designed to empower and protect consumers.

“Fraud doesn’t discriminate by where someone banks,” said Rebecca Crowe, Retail Operations Specialist, Oconee State Bank. “By working together, we can amplify our impact, strengthen awareness, and show our customers—and our communities—that local banks are standing together to keep them safe.”Each participating bank is incorporating consistent messaging into its own customer communications and digital channels, reinforcing a united stance against fraud. Plans for broader community outreach, including a joint public awareness campaign, are also underway. The initiative was first sparked through Oconee State Bank’s internal “Fraud Squad,” which brought local banks together for the inaugural meeting. Classic City Bank is slated to host the coalition’s next session, continuing the shared spirit of collaboration.

The coalition’s mission is simple yet powerful: to combine resources, share insights, and take proactive steps to reduce fraud-related losses while educating customers about prevention strategies. The partnership sends a strong and uncommon message within the banking industry—one of collaboration over competition, and unity in protecting those they serve.