Ever receive a text from your bank that says something along the lines of “Dear (insert bank name) Customer, Our security systems have detected potential unauthorized access to your account”
Yeah, probably not a real text from your bank. First off, the bank would address you by name, not DEAR CUSTOMER.
So what can you do?
- DON’T click links in the text!
- DON’T reply to the text
- DO take a screenshot if you are going to report it
- DO contact your bank directly (either through your app or calling the number from your debit card)
- DO file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
What to do to protect yourself
As we preach, DON’T CLICK ON LINKS in suspicious texts. They may even look real!
Look for the following signs:
Spelling is off just a bit. AI is getting better and better at this, though, so don’t rely on just that.
Dear Customer, instead of your account name.
NEVER DIAL THE PHONE NUMBER provided. There is an excellent chance it is a scam. Excellent chance!
Enable spam filters for calls and texts on your device.
Make sure you have MFA (multifactor authentication) on ALL your accounts. Especially the financial institutions.
Use the verified banking app from your phone, don’t rely on those texts.
Don’t act on impulse. Especially if the text is “URGENT” If you feel like you NEED to act quickly, again, call the bank directly NOT from the number in the TXT.
REPORT THE SCAM. Please report these attempts to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) they can be found at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
If you have fallen victim to this scam, please let us know, we can help you out! Remember that you are not alone and that this is a very convincing way hackers can get your information.
As always, please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns.
Stay Safe Out There!