News

The *21 scam is a type of phone fraud where a scammer tricks you into entering a code that forwards all of your incoming calls and text messages to their device. This allows them to intercept one-time passwords (OTPs) and other sensitive information to gain access to your financial and online accounts. How the scam works The scammer contacts you, often by impersonating a legitimate entity like your bank, phone provider, or a company you've ordered from. They create a sense of...

(Savannah, GEORGIA)— Great Oaks Bank is pleased to announce the hiring of Peyton Singletary as Portfolio Manager. In this role, Singletary will support the bank’s lending team by managing client relationships, monitoring credit risk, and ensuring the continued delivery of exceptional service to both new and existing customers. Singletary brings a strong background in financial services, most recently serving as a Banker and Financial Services Representative. He earned a Bachelor...

Discover how a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) from Great Oaks Bank can help you manage home improvements, debt consolidation, and holiday expenses this fall and winter—with low rates and potential tax benefits. As the weather cools and the holidays approach, expenses often heat up—between home projects, travel, tuition, and gift-giving, it’s easy for costs to pile up. A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) from Great Oaks Bank can help you stay ahead with flexible, affordable...

We’re excited to introduce a new feature in Online and Mobile Banking: free credit score access! With just a few clicks, you can securely view your credit score anytime, no extra apps, no hidden fees. It’s quick, easy, and built right into your Great Oaks Bank account, giving you the tools to stay on top of your financial health. This feature will launch on October 1, 2025, and will be visible when you log in until you accept or decline to use this tool. For consumer accounts only. A...

When it comes to banking, bigger doesn’t always mean better. At Great Oaks Bank, we believe that true value comes from building meaningful relationships, being deeply invested in our communities, and anticipating the needs of our customers. While larger banks often treat customers as account numbers, we pride ourselves on offering an authentic community banking experience that puts people first. Exceptional Customer Service At Great Oaks Bank, customer service isn’t a...

Cybercriminals are evolving. The latest evolution is Godfather malware – a sophisticated banking trojan that’s targeting legitimate banking apps. Over 400 financial institutions of all sizes have been affected globally, including many in the United States. Although Great Oaks Bank has not experienced exposure to this malware, we want you, our valued customer, to be aware of its capabilities so that you can join us in vigilantly protection your accounts from fraudsters. Godfather...

Saving money is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Whether you’re planning for an emergency, a big purchase, or your future retirement, having a savings account provides security and peace of mind. At Great Oaks Bank, we offer a range of savings account options tailored to your individual goals. But how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s break it down. Why Is Saving Money Important? Building a habit of saving isn’t just about setting aside cash—it’s...

As home values continue to climb across Georgia, homeowners are finding new opportunities to tap into their home’s built-up equity. Whether you’re planning a major renovation, consolidating debt, paying for education, or preparing for life’s next chapter, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) from Great Oaks Bank can offer flexible, affordable financing right when you need it. And now, for a limited time, we’re making that opportunity even more attractive with a special 5.99%...

(Savannah, GEORGIA)— Great Oaks Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Joyce Studier as Senior Vice President, Retail Banking Director. In this key leadership role, Studier will be responsible for overseeing the bank’s retail operations across all markets, focusing on performance, customer experience, and strategic growth. With more than two decades of banking experience, Studier brings deep expertise in branch operations, team development, and customer relationship...

(Savannah, GEORGIA)— Great Oaks Bank is proud to announce the appointment of Phillip Anderson as Executive Vice President and Savannah Market Executive. In this leadership role, Phillip will spearhead the bank’s growth initiatives, community engagement, and relationship-building efforts throughout the Savannah market. With over 25 years of senior-level experience in commercial banking, private banking, and wealth management, Phillip brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track...

In today’s financial world, flexibility and smart borrowing are key. Whether you’re planning a home renovation, consolidating debt, or preparing for a major expense, having access to affordable credit can make all the difference. That’s where a HELOC, or Home Equity Line of Credit, comes in. At Great Oaks Bank, we’re committed to providing personalized, community-focused financial solutions, and our HELOC product is no exception. In this article, we’ll break down what a HELOC...

(Richmond Hill, GEORGIA)— Great Oaks Bank is pleased to announce that Carl R. Varnedoe and Kelly Johnson have been elected to its Board of Directors. Their combined expertise in law, real estate, leadership, and community engagement will further strengthen the bank’s strategic direction and commitment to service across the region. A Hinesville, GA native, Carl R. Varnedoe is the founder of Carl R. Varnedoe, LLC, a Savannah-based personal injury law firm that represents clients...