John Bozard has joined First Reliance Bank as a Relationship Banker, for the Lexington, S.C. area. In his new role, he will be reaching out to businesses throughout the area and introducing them to First Reliance Bank's business products and services and he’ll represent the Bank through involvement in local associations, charities or business organizations.

Bozard spent the majority of his banking career with First Citizens Bank in Lexington, South Carolina and has over 30 years of experience. His long track record includes successfully leading the Lexington area commercial lender efforts. He has achieved numerous banking awards including a Top Performer Best Banker Award for highest branch and individual performance scores among peers.

Bozard has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Presbyterian College, South Carolina. He also has a Masters of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College.

He currently serves as a council member of ...

Every year, millions of consumers fall victim to cybercrime. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, in 2014, consumers lost more than $800 million from scams initiated through the web. In recognition of Internet Safety Month in June, First Reliance is highlighting seven tips to help consumers protect themselves from online fraud. “The Internet has become one of the most popular tools used to commit fraud and criminals are becoming more and more sophisticated with their hacking techniques,” said Jeff Paolucci, Chief Financial  Officer“.  As a result, it’s extremely important for consumers to secure their wireless networks and filter the amount of personal information they choose to divulge online.” First Reliance Bank recommends the following tips to keep you safe online:

• Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date.  Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other ...

As millennials juggle a multitude of responsibilities -- from school, to work, to planning for major life events --First Reliance Bank is highlighting eight banking tips to help them secure a financially sound future.

“Millennials are digital natives who understand the importance of staying connected socially, but staying connected to their bank can help their finances as they encounter life’s many milestones,” said Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO. “From enhanced mobile resources to free budgeting tools, banks offer a variety of products and services to complement millennials’ unique lifestyles and ease their worries as they prepare to make some of life’s biggest financial decisions.” With a recent report finding that more than 4 in 10 U.S. millennials say they are “chronically stressed” about money, First Reliance recommends these eight tips to help them secure a strong financial footing:

• Go cyber shopping for a bank that fits your style. There ...