Recognizing Fraudulent Messages

Text message scams targeting financial institutions have become more prevalent in the past few months, targeting consumers on their phones, with messages like:

• You have 2 pending deposits on hold. Tap the link to lift the hold.
• A pending payment of $300 was charged at CVS Pharmacy. Tap the link to review.
• Your bank account has been temporarily suspended. Tap the link to reactivate your account.
• Along with text message scams, fraudsters will try all methods to gain access to your personal information, through email, phone calls, or even through the mail.

Workers will never call or text to ask for your account number or password. The best way to protect yourself is to play defense: 

• If you receive a text message like the ones listed above, DO NOT click the link. Block the sender and delete the text.
• Review your accounts on a regular basis and check your credit report at least once a year.
• Use strong passwords and don’t use the same ones for every account you have.

Delete any emails or text messages that you find suspicious and if you recognize the sender, contact them directly using an email or phone number published on their website.