Bank Impersonation Scams
Calls, texts, or emails pretending to be your bank's fraud department to get codes, logins, or transfers.
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What this scam is
A scammer pretends to be from your bank, often the 'fraud department'. They claim there is suspicious activity and pressure you to confirm a security code, log in through a link, or move your money to a 'safe account' they control.
What it usually looks like
- A call or text claiming your account has suspicious activity.
- A request to read back a code the bank just texted you.
- Instructions to move your money to a new 'safe' account for protection.
Common warning signs
- Your bank will never ask you to move money to a safe account.
- Your bank will never ask you to read back a one-time code.
- Caller ID can be faked to show your bank's name or number.
Example wording scammers use
“This is the fraud department. We blocked a $500 charge. To confirm it wasn't you, read me the 6-digit code we just sent.”
“For your safety, transfer your balance to the secure account we set up for you.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Your one-time security codes.
- Your online banking login.
- A transfer of your money to their account.
What to do
- Do not reply or share any codes.
- Hang up and call the number printed on the back of your bank card.
- Never move money because someone told you your account is at risk.
What to do if you already responded
- Call your bank right away using the number on your card.
- Lock or replace the card if you shared its details.
- Review recent transactions and report anything unfamiliar.
- Change your online banking password.