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Phone Scams: Beware of Fraudulent Bank Account Recovery Requests
Phone scams are on the rise, and one of the latest tactics involves criminals calling potential victims and claiming to need their bank account information for account recovery purposes. Here’s how the scam typically works:
Scenario:
You receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from your bank. They may use a legitimate-sounding name, such as "Bank of America" or "Chase." The caller informs you that there has been suspicious activity on your account and that they need you to provide certain information to recover your account.
Information Requested:
The scammer will typically request sensitive information such as your:
- Bank account number
- Routing number
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Debit or credit card numbers
Consequences:
By providing this information, you give the scammer access to your bank account and personal information. They can use this data to:
- Withdraw funds: Empty your checking and savings accounts.
- Make unauthorized purchases: Use your credit or debit cards to make online or in-store purchases.
- Steal your identity: Use your personal information to open fraudulent accounts or commit other crimes.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Never provide sensitive information over the phone. Legitimate banks will never ask you for your account details over the phone.
- Verify the caller’s identity. If you receive a call like this, ask for the caller’s name, employee ID, and callback number.
- Contact your bank directly. If you’re concerned about your account’s security, call your bank using the official phone number listed on their website or bank statements.
- Report the scam. If you believe you have been targeted by a phone scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-FTC-HELP or online at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
Remember: Banks will never ask you to verify your account details over the phone. If you receive a call like this, it is a scam. Protect your money and personal information by reporting the scam and informing your bank directly.
