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October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an annual reminder to check the locks on our digital lives. This year, it’s important to remember that anyone can become the target of a scam when emotions take over and good judgment is rushed. According...

Iowa State Bank, Algona, Iowa and its holding company, Mid-Iowa Bancshares Co., have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Swea City Bancorporation, Inc. and its subsidiary bank, Bank Plus, a $157 million community bank headquartered in Estherville,...

Estherville, Graettinger, Ledyard, Swea City

Have you ever received a text, email, or phone call that seemed legitimate, but something felt off? You're not alone. According to a 2025 Bankrate survey, more than two-thirds of Americans (68%) have experienced a financial scam or fraud at some...

Consumer Tips, Fraud detection, Safety, Security

Iowa State Bank contributed $10,000 to support the Ruthven Fire Department's construction of a new fire station, helping strengthen emergency services and invest in the future of the community. The new fire station will provide the Ruthven Fire...

September is National Preparedness month, and the question isn’t if scammers are going to target older adults but when. It’s important to be prepared for criminals when they come knocking. Fraudsters are capitalizing on sophisticated artificial...

Consumer Tips, identity theft, prevent fraud, Safety, Security

School is back in session, and that means it's time for a quick lesson in money management for students and families. Whether you're buying textbooks, paying tuition, or managing everyday expenses, the right digital banking tools can help keep...

 Kids' Book Picks for Grades 6 – 8 With the start of a new school year just around the corner, now is a great time to encourage reading habits that can last a lifetime. Books are also a wonderful way to introduce important life skills,...

When most people think of back-to-school, they picture new backpacks, fresh notebooks, and the latest athletic shoes. For Ben Kern, Vice President of Commercial Lending at Iowa State Bank, going back to school means two weeks of intensive financial education...

Smart Money Stories: Kids' Book Picks for Grades 3 – 5 August has arrived, and a new school year is just around the corner. As students prepare to head back to the classroom, it's a great time to help them build skills that will benefit...

From Piggy Banks to Possibilities: Kids' Book Picks for Grades Kindergarten - 2 As summer winds down and a new school year approaches, now is the perfect time to encourage a love of reading while introducing important life lessons. For young children,...