Fake Bank Text & App Alert Scams

Pause. Verify. Protect.

Scammers are increasingly sending text messages and app notifications that appear to come directly from your bank. These messages often claim there is “suspicious activity” on your account or that immediate action is required to prevent fraud. The goal is to create urgency and fear so you click before you think. Once you do, you may be taken to a fake website designed to capture your login credentials or personal information.

These scam messages can look very convincing. They may use your bank’s name, familiar language, or even copy the style of legitimate alerts. Some include links that closely resemble official websites, while others prompt you to reply or call a number provided in the message. Scammers rely on the fact that many people regularly receive real alerts from their bank and may not stop to question them.

Your bank will never ask for your full account number, online banking password, or one-time security codes through a text message or unexpected link. If you receive a message that feels urgent or out of the ordinary, pause before taking action. Avoid clicking links or responding directly to the message.

Instead, verify the alert by contacting your bank using a trusted phone number or by logging into your official banking app or website. Taking a moment to pause and verify can prevent unauthorized access to your accounts and help keep your financial information secure.