How to Spot Imposter Scams and Keep Your Bank Account Secure

# Overview Imposter scams remain a major source of consumer loss—recent reporting cites about $10 billion a year. Scammers have grown more sophisticated, sometimes using deep-fake technology to mimic voices or faces. The tactics, however, follow common patterns you can learn to spot and resist.

# How imposters typically operate Scammers pretend to be a trusted figure such as a bank representative, claim there's a problem, and demand quick action. Typical scripts include alleged fraud on your account, unexpected fees, or a need to move money for "safety." The ask often makes the supposed fix the only way to avoid harm.

• Requests to deposit cash into a "new" account or transfer funds immediately.
• Demands for PINs, one-time security codes, or other confidential credentials.
• Pressure to act quickly and discourage independent verification.

Ask yourself whether the request makes sense. Legitimate banks will never tell you to transfer funds to solve a problem or ask you to share your PIN or security code.

# Payment methods scammers prefer Scammers favor payment channels that are hard to trace or reverse. Common examples:

• Cryptocurrency
• Payment apps
• Gift cards

These channels remove typical consumer protections and make recovery unlikely. If anyone claiming to be your bank asks for these forms of payment, stop and verify independently.

# Phishing and digital hygiene Phishing messages often look legitimate. Avoid these mistakes:

• Open a company's website by typing the URL into your browser or using the official mobile app rather than following a link.

• Use strong, unique passcodes for accounts.
• Keep operating systems and apps up to date to receive security patches.

# Use your bank's security features Mobile banking apps can provide active defenses: alerts for suspicious activity, real-time guidance, and tools that show your account's current protection level. Features to use when available:

• Fraud and suspicious-activity alerts
• Biometric sign-on (fingerprint or facial recognition)
• A security meter or dashboard that recommends specific steps to raise protection

These tools won't stop every scam, but they reduce risk and make it easier to spot unusual activity quickly.

# Education and support Banks and financial centers often provide fraud education resources. The article lists free upcoming "Scaminar" events you can register for to learn more:

• Tuesday, Sept. 15, 4:30–5:30 PM
• Wednesday, Oct. 14, 4:45–5:15 PM
• Monday, Nov. 2, 5:00–6:00 PM

# Practical checklist to follow right now

• If contacted unexpectedly about your account, hang up and call your bank using a verified number.
• Never authorize transfers or reveal codes under pressure.
• Avoid paying via crypto, gift cards, or unfamiliar payment apps when asked by a caller or messenger.
• Access banking sites only through official apps or by entering the URL yourself.
• Turn on alerts, use biometric sign-on if available, and check your security dashboard.

Following these practical steps lowers your chance of becoming a scam victim and makes it easier to respond quickly if you notice suspicious activity.