Scammers are getting smarter and tricking people into thinking they’re talking to a real bank or credit union. They use texts, emails, and phone calls to steal your money or information. Here’s how to spot common scams and stay safe.
Warning Signs of a Scam
1. A Text Asking for Passwords or Personal Info
Your real bank might text you to ask if you made a purchase, but they will never ask for:
- Your password
- Your PIN
- Your full Social Security number
- Any personal details in a text
What to do: Don’t click on links or call the number in the text. Visit your bank’s website and use the official phone number to call them directly.
2. Fake Fraud Alert
Scammers pretend to be your bank. They say someone used your account to send money using a payment app (like Zelle or Venmo).
What to do: Stop and think. Don’t follow any instructions in the text or call. Contact your bank directly using their real phone number.
3. A Message Saying Your Account Will Be Deleted in 24 Hours
Scam messages often try to scare you by giving a fake deadline like “your account will be deleted in 24 hours.”
Real banks don’t do this. They want to help, not rush you.
4. A Link to Download a “New” Banking App
When your financial institution is doing an upgrade they will communicate it in advance through mail and email. They will encourage members to download the new app in the app store. Only download banking apps from official app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play.
5. Emails With Shortened Links
Scammers hide fake links using short URLs (like bit.ly).
Don’t click. Visit your bank’s website yourself by typing the address into your browser.
6. A Courier Sent to Pick Up Your “Broken” Bank Card
Scammers might say they’re sending someone to pick up your old debit or credit card. They may even ask for your PIN.
This is 100% a scam.
Real banks will never send couriers to your house. If your card is broken, they’ll mail you a new one and ask you to destroy the old one.
7. A Call Asking You to Hang Up and Call Back
Some scammers “prove” they’re real by asking you to call your bank’s number. But they don’t hang up the phone, so you’re still talking to the scammer.
Tip: Hang up and wait at least 30 seconds. Then call your bank using the number on your card or bank website.
8. Emails From a New Address Without Warning
If your bank suddenly emails you at your work or another email you never gave them, it’s likely fake.
Pro tip: Use a special email just for banking. Don’t share it with anyone or post it online.
9. Bank Website Without a Lock Icon
Real banking websites are secure. Look for:
- A locked padlock icon in the browser
- A URL that starts with https://
If you don’t see the lock, don’t enter your info.
Use your bank’s app when on your phone for more security.
10. Emails That Start With “Dear Customer”
Scam emails often say:
- “Dear Customer”
- “Dear youremail@gmail.com”
Real emails from your bank will usually:
- Use your real name
- Include part of your account number (like the last 4 digits)
11. Blank “To” Field or Group Emails
If an email doesn’t show your name or is sent to a big group (like “Customer List”), it’s likely a scam.
12. They Ask for Your Mother’s Maiden Name
Banks may ask for a codeword, but never personal info like:
- Mother’s maiden name
- Full address
- Full Social Security number
If a message asks for too much info, it’s a scam.
Common Scam Examples
Fake Bank Manager
- You get a call from someone pretending to be the bank manager.
- They say your account has suspicious activity.
- They ask you to confirm your account info or passwords.
Stop. This is a scam.
Fake Refund or Audit
- You’re told the bank made a mistake and owes you money.
- They ask you to send a small payment to “verify” your account.
If you send money, it goes to the scammer.
Fake Loan Offer
- You’re told you’ve been approved for a loan you never applied for.
- You’re asked to pay a fee to “receive” the loan.
After you pay, they disappear.
Fake Bank Merger
- You get a message saying your bank is merging with another.
- They ask you to update your info through a link.
Never update personal info from a random link.
Fake Charity Event
- You’re told your bank is collecting donations for a cause.
- You’re asked to send money using gift cards or wire transfer.
No real bank collects charity money this way.
Text Message Scams (SMS Fraud Alerts)
Here’s how one common scam works:
- You get a text saying a big payment was made from your account.
- You’re asked to reply with Y (yes) or N (no).
- If you reply, the scammer calls you from a fake number.
- They ask for your card details and CVV.
- They guide you through steps that seem like you’re reversing the charge, but really you’re sending them money.
How to Stay Safe
- Don’t click links or call numbers in random texts or emails.
- Never give out your CVV, PIN, or full account info by text, email, or phone.
- Hang up and call your bank using the number on the back of your card.
- Don’t respond to unknown texts — not even with “STOP.”
- Use your bank’s official app for payments and account updates.
- Watch for poor grammar or misspelled words — common signs of scams.
- Block unknown senders on your phone.
- Keep your personal info off social media.
Final Tip
When in doubt, verify.
If something feels off, call your bank directly. A real bank representative will always understand if you want to confirm things first.
Want to Learn More Security Tips?
Explore Honor’s Security Center for our procedures and resources in the event you encounter fraudulent activity.