How to Spot a Fake Bank Text Message
Fake bank texts use fear and urgency to make you act before you think. "Suspicious payment detected, confirm here." The goal is your login, card details or a one-time code.
Warning signs
- A link to "verify" or "unlock" your account.
- Pressure. "Your account will be closed today."
- A request for a code you just received.
- A phone number to call that isn't on your card.
- Generic greetings instead of your name, though real names can be faked too.
The safe way to check
- Don't click, don't reply, don't call back from the message.
- Open your banking app or type the bank's website yourself.
- Or call the number printed on your card.
Never share a code
A one-time code from your bank is for you to type into your bank's own app or site. Anyone asking you to read it out is trying to get into your account.
If you shared something
Call your bank immediately using the official number. Change your password and check recent transactions.
Reduce scam texts
Scammers use numbers from data leaks. Keep your real number for accounts that need it, like your bank, and use a separate number for one-off sign ups. telly.cat rents numbers for exactly that.
FAQ
Will my bank ever ask for a code by text or phone?
Banks commonly warn that they will never ask you to share a one-time code or your full password. Treat any such request as a scam.
How do I check if a bank text is real?
Don't use the link or number in the text. Open your banking app or call the number on your card or the bank's official website.