Common Scams to Watch Out For
Is that really the bank contacting you? Test your scam skills with the ABA's BanksNeverAskThat quiz.
Knowledge is a powerful defense.
Check out these trending scams:
Imposter scams
"Your package was returned, and you need to reschedule your delivery"
Help protect your money - pause, verify, help prevent scams
State National Bank will never ask you to take these actions. Verify all requests for information or money. Talk to your friends and family about the tactics scammers use.
Initial Contact
You receive a communication about an issue - it may be with a delivery, your account, a family member or a device.
Deceptive instructions
You may be urged to provide information such as a code, or take an action such as provide remote access, move money to another account or digital wallet, ignore warning messages or input *72 or **21 in the phone.
The scammer wins
After following the instructions, the scammer now has access to your money, and it's unlikely you'll see your money again.
Investment scams
"They guaranteed a quick return on the investment, and I was receiving those returns in the beginning"
Help protect your money
Always validate investment opportunities. Use caution if asked to provide personal or financial information, especially if asked to send money through digital currency or instant money transfers.
Initial Contact
The scammer will reach out through social media, text or email with a unique investment opportunity or a chance to get rich quick.
Deceptive instructions
You'll be convinced to invest your money and will start to receive small returns.
Fake returns
You're then encouraged to invest larger sums of money based on the returns you are receiving but suddenly all communications stop.
Tech support scams
"They needed remote access to remove a virus from my device"
Help protect your money
No matter the reason given, be cautious about granting device access or downloading unfamiliar apps to fix issues with your devices. Run a full system virus and spyware scan and power off the device.
Initial Contact
Scammers reach out, via computer pop-up or phone call, claiming there is an issue with your device.
Deceptive instructions
You are instructed to provide remote access to the device and to download an app to fix the issue.
Access to personal information
Once you grant remote access or download the app, the scammer has access to your personal information. They can install malware on your device and demand a payment before they give back your access.
Online sales
"I thought I'd scored really hard-to-get tickets"
Help protect your money
Slow down and use caution if pressured to act quickly. Research the seller and products independently, check reviews for possible scam notices. Most online promotions that sounds too good to be true - typically are.
Initial Contact
Scammers create a fake website or post a "great deal" on social media for an item you're had your eye on.
Deceptive instructions
They ask you to pay in less common ways such as cash, gift cards or wire transfers.
Pressured to act
You'll be pressured to act quickly so you don't miss out on the deal.
Disclosure: Information is educational in nature and not a solicitation of business from State National Bank.