When it comes to talk of bank fraud, money scams often take a back seat to horror stories about credit card and identity theft.

Thanks to the work of First Bank, however, local communities are becoming increasingly aware of a problem that is more prevalent, especially among seniors, than perhaps many realize.

Judy Estridge, vice president and director of mature market programs for First Bank, was recently recognized by the North Carolina Conference on Aging for her ongoing efforts to educate communities on money scammers and ways consumers can avoid falling victim to scams.

At a reception in October, Estridge received the Private Sector Award from the North Carolina Senior Consumer Fraud Task Force. North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper received the public sector award.

The group applauded Estridge and First Bank for several educational forums on senior fraud organized by the bank and the role the bank has played in aiding law enforcement in stopping innumerable acts of fraud.

First Bank has held a number of half-day training programs on preventing senior fraud and identity theft for its personnel. Estridge said First Bank teaches its staffers to know their customers and to be vigilant about identifying suspicious activity.

"If you see your customer doing something out of the ordinary," she said, "then it's time to ask a few questions."

Estridge often speaks to church groups and other civic organizations on behalf of First Bank about ways to avoid becoming a victim of scams or identity theft.

"First Bank is committed to going the extra mile to educate the communities it serves on the possible risks they face," she said. "Awareness is the key."

First Bank plans a "Shred Day" early next year in which the bank will invite local residents to visit local branches to shred all of their personal documents for no charge.

"First Bank's one-on-one banking philosophy includes meeting the needs of our customers and giving back to the communities we serve," said First Bancorp President and CEO James Garner. "Fraud, identity theft and money scams are serious problems, and Judy continues to do an outstanding job educating the public on their dangers."

Anyone interested in scheduling an educational seminar or needing more information about the 2007 Shred Day can contact Estridge at (910) 576-2265.