Phishing: Don't take the bait.
Phishing is when you get emails, texts or calls that seem to be from companies or people you know. But, they are actually from scammers. They want you to click on a link or give personal information (like a password) so that they can steal your money or identity, and possibly get access to your computer.
Know the red flags.
No matter which technique a scammer uses - fake email, text message, voice call, letter, or even someone who shows up unexpectedly at your door - be on the look out for these red flags:
- Contacted unexpectedly by phone, email, text, direct message or pop-up with a request for personal information or money. Never click a link or download an attachment from someone you do not know. Austin Bank will never text, email or call you asking for personal or account information (including your account number or PIN).
- Pressured to act immediately with an alarming phone call, email or text that plays to your emotions. Scammers may pose as an employee from a familiar organization, such as Austin Bank, and say there is a problem that needs immediate attention. DO NOT act unless you have verified the person who has contacted you and the story or request is legitimate. (And, do not take their word for it. Hang up and call back if you question the validity of the call.)
- Look up the website or phone number for the company or person who is contacting you. But, be aware, phone numbers can be faked.
- Call that company or person directly. Use a number you know to be correct, not the number in the email or text.
- Asked to pay in an unusual way such as gift cards, bitcoin, prepaid debit cards or digital currency, including Zelle or PopMoney, to resolve fraud. Austin Bank will never ask you to transfer money to anyone, including yourself (between accounts), and will never ask you to transfer money because we detected fraud on your account.
- Asked to provide personal or account information, such as an account verification code, bank account number or PIN. When in doubt, do not give it out. Austin Bank will never text, email or call you asking for any of this information.
- Offered a free product or 'get rich quick' opportunity that seems to good to be true? If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Never cash a check for someone you do not know.
If you authorize a transfer or send money to a scammer,
there is often little we can do to help get your money back.
You can learn even more about how to protect yourself by visiting our Prevent Fraud page.
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