Phone Call Scam: Bank Account Closure Verification
What is it?
Scammers call you, claiming to be from your bank or a government agency. They tell you that your bank account has been compromised or is being closed due to suspicious activity. To verify your identity and close the account, they ask you to provide your personal and financial information, including your account number, PIN, social security number, or credit card details.
How it works:
- The scammer calls you and identifies themselves as being from your bank or a government agency.
- They state that your bank account has been compromised or is being closed due to suspicious activity.
- They request your personal and financial information to verify your identity and close the account.
- If you provide the information, the scammer will use it to access your bank account and steal your funds.
How to protect yourself:
- Never provide your personal or financial information over the phone to someone you don’t know.
- Contact your bank directly if you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the bank and requesting your information.
- Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls from individuals or organizations claiming to represent your bank or a government agency.
- If you have any concerns about the security of your bank account, contact your bank branch in person or through their official website.
What to do if you’ve been scammed:
- Contact your bank immediately and report the scam.
- Freeze your bank account to prevent further unauthorized transactions.
- File a police report and notify the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
Remember:
- Legitimate banks and government agencies will never ask you to provide your personal or financial information over the phone.
- If you are ever unsure about the legitimacy of a call, hang up and contact your bank or agency directly.
- By staying vigilant and protecting your personal information, you can avoid falling victim to these phone call scams.
