Phone Scam Targeting Bank Accounts
Authorities are warning the public about a new phone scam that targets bank accounts. The scam involves a caller claiming to be from a bank and requesting the recipient to verify their bank account login username.
How the Scam Works:
The scammer will call the victim and identify themselves as an employee of their bank. They will then claim that there has been suspicious activity on the victim’s account and that they need to verify the victim’s identity.
The scammer will then ask the victim to provide their bank account login username. Once the victim provides their username, the scammer can access their account and steal their money.
Protecting Yourself:
Banks will never call customers and ask for their login information. If you receive a call like this, hang up and call your bank directly.
Never give your bank account login information to anyone over the phone, email, or text message.
Be wary of unsolicited calls or emails that claim to be from your bank. If you are unsure if a call or email is legitimate, contact your bank directly.
If you have been a victim of this scam, contact your bank immediately and freeze your account. You should also file a police report.
Reporting the Scam:
If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from your bank and asking for your bank account login username, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-382-4357 or online at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
