In recent years, fraud related to bank SMS and calls from the «security service» has become extremely widespread. Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated techniques to deceive trusting bank clients and seize their finances.
Bank call fraud
Phone calls from the bank's «security service» often become the first stage of fraudulent activities. Calling victims, scammers pose as bank employees and inform them about suspicious activity on the account. By convincing the victim that her card may be at risk, they ask for confidential information such as card numbers or passwords.
In most cases, such calls occur when the bank client is most vulnerable: for example, in the evening or on weekends when many bank specialists are absent. Fraudsters can use various tricks to create an illusion of trust.
Phone fraud can be recognized by several signs:
- a real bank employee will never request confidential data over the phone.
- if the call comes from a number you do not know, it is best to call back your bank's hotline using the official number to verify that the information is true.
- pay attention to how the conversation is conducted. Scammers often use persistent methods and threaten loss of access to the account to force the victim to act quickly.
Fake SMS from the bank
Along with phone calls, scammers also actively use SMS messages to deceive citizens. Such SMS may contain information that your account is blocked or that a suspicious transaction has been made. Messages often end with a request to follow a link to confirm the data.
This can lead the victim to a fake site that mimics the real bank's web page. By entering their data on such a site, the client hands over information to scammers, who then use it to steal funds.
To protect yourself from fake SMS, it is important to follow a few rules:
- do not follow links from messages and do not enter personal data on unfamiliar websites.
- call the bank using the contact details available on the official website.
Payment confirmation scam
One of the most common fraud schemes is the payment confirmation scam. Often, confirmation requires entering a code that comes in an SMS. This may seem harmless, however, by entering such a code, you are actually giving scammers access to your finances. After that, they can withdraw funds from your account using the received code.
To avoid falling victim to such scams, pay attention to some signs: for example, inconsistencies in the message, such as grammatical errors or incorrect links. In addition, always check transaction information in your online banking.
Fake bank security services
Fraudsters can not only impersonate bank employees but also create fake security services. They use identical schemes: calling clients and offering help to ensure the security of their accounts. They usually require the installation of remote access software on a computer or mobile phone. After this, scammers can steal the client's data and money, as they now have full access to the device.
To check if the security service is real, you must independently find the bank's contact information on their official website and call.
Confirmation code scams
Confirmation codes are another common fraud scheme. Scammers may ask the victim to provide a code that comes in an SMS when trying to log into an account or make a transfer. Most often, this happens when the scammer somehow manages to gain access to your personal data. It is important to remember that no banker will request your confirmation codes.
To avoid falling victim to confirmation code scams, it is important to be vigilant and not share your codes with anyone.
Bank client deception
Deception of bank clients is an entire industry, and fraudsters are always one step ahead. Most scammers use simple tricks such as fake identification, intimidation, and manipulation. Therefore, the most vulnerable groups of the population are the elderly, unfamiliar with mobile and internet technologies. However, fraud affects everyone, and it is important to be vigilant.
To protect yourself and your financial assets, you should:
- regularly change passwords and use complex sequences of numbers and letters
- do not open suspicious messages
- do not follow unknown links
Monitor the status of your accounts and immediately notify the bank of any suspicious operations.
How to distinguish scammers from a real bank
The difference between scammers and a real bank can be a decisive moment in your security. Most often, scammers operate according to pre-known scenarios, such as requesting confirmation of operations or personal data. Learn to distinguish the communication style of your bank's security service from scammers.
A real bank will always act within the law and will never request confidential information through phone calls or SMS. Upon receiving suspicious messages, you should:
- Call the bank using the official number.
- Check all transactions in online banking.
Do not forget about the usual safety rules when working with banks: use antivirus software, do not follow suspicious links, and do not disclose personal data to third parties.
Conclusion
Fraud with fake bank SMS and calls from the «security service» is a serious threat to every client. Knowing the main schemes of fraudsters, their methods, and techniques, we can minimize the risk of becoming a victim. Vigilance, awareness, and adherence to simple safety rules will help preserve your funds and protect personal data.