3 Signs a Bank Text or Email Might Be a Scam
Scammers are getting smarter, making fraudulent text messages and emails look more convincing than ever. From fake account alerts to urgent requests for personal information, it can be difficult to tell what’s legitimate and what’s designed to steal your information.
At Decorah and Cresco Bank & Trust, protecting our customers is one of our highest priorities. Here are three warning signs to watch for — and what to do if you receive one.
1. They Want You to Panic
One of the biggest red flags is urgency.
Scammers rely on fear of getting you to act quickly without thinking. Their messages often include phrases like:
- “Your account will be locked immediately.”
- “Verify your information now.”
- “Click here within 30 minutes.”
If a message pressures you to act immediately, pause before clicking. Legitimate financial institutions won’t use scare tactics to force you into making quick decisions.
Remember: Taking a few extra moments to verify a message can help prevent fraud.
2. They’re Asking for Personal Information
A legitimate bank will never ask you to provide sensitive information through an unsolicited text message or email.
Be suspicious if you’re asked to provide:
- Online banking passwords
- One-time security or verification codes
- Debit card PINs
- Full Social Security numbers
If you receive a request like this, don’t respond. Instead, contact your bank directly using the phone number listed on its official website or the back of your debit card.
3. The Link or Sender Doesn’t Look Right
Scammers often create emails, phone numbers, and websites that appear legitimate at first glance.
Watch for red flags such as:
- Misspelled email addresses
- Phone numbers you don’t recognize
- Links that don’t match your bank’s official website
- Poor grammar or spelling mistakes
For example, fake websites may look convincing but use addresses like:
- decorah-bank-security.com
- secureyourbanking247.net
Always double-check who sent the message before clicking any links.
What Should You Do?
If something about a message doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
Follow these simple steps:
- Don’t click on any links.
- Don’t reply to the message.
- Call your bank using a trusted phone number to verify the communication.
- Delete the message after reporting it.
When it comes to protecting your finances, it’s always better to verify first.
Help Protect Others
Financial scams can happen to anyone—regardless of age or experience.
You can help protect your family, friends, and neighbors by sharing this information.
Here’s how you can help:
- Save this article for future reference.
- Share it with someone who may benefit from it.
If you ever question whether a text, email, or phone call is legitimate, we’re here to help.