Guide · 5 min read
Bank Impersonation Scams: When 'Your Bank' Calls or Texts
Quick answer
Real banks never ask you to read out a one-time code, move money to a 'safe account' or keep a call secret. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
These scams send a fake fraud alert, then a 'fraud specialist' calls to help you 'protect' your money — by moving it to an account they control.
What real banks never do
- Ask you to read out a one-time passcode sent to your phone.
- Ask you to move money to a 'safe account'.
- Tell you to keep the call secret from family or branch staff.
- Ask you to pay with gift cards or crypto.
What to do
Hang up and call the number on the back of your card or in your banking app. Caller ID can be faked, so a familiar number on screen proves nothing.