Common scams to watch out for
Do you think you may have fallen or a scam? Do you want to take steps to protect your information before you fall victim to a scam? Then sign up for our ID Theft Monitoring today!
Stay Alert | Stay Informed
Utilize the Better Business Bureau's Scam Tracker.
Knowledge is a powerful defense.
Check out these trending scams:
Cryptocurrency scams are on the rise
Recently, there has been an increase in fake investment schemes promoting legitimate cryptocurrency platforms such as Coinbase, and promising lucrative returns. Although the opportunity appears legitimate, all the invested funds are routed to a cryptocurrency wallet controlled completely by the fraudsters. The victims lose their investment.
- Using email, text messages, dating apps and investment groups, the scammer contacts fraud victims to gain trust and tout the "success" of cryptocurrency investments.
- Although various steps of the schemes vary, a common tactic is to direct a victim to a fake investment website that is similar to legitimate cryptocurrency platforms and helps them open an account and transfer money. Then the victim receives additional instructions to transfer their cryptocurrency assets to the fake investment platform.
- Once the victim sends money, the scammers set up a series of small transfers into the victim's wallet showing "profit". You may be able to make small withdrawals of this "profit" to hook you into believing that you'll make lucrative returns.
- As the victim invests larger amounts of money based on the returns they received, communications with the platform and access to the cryptocurrency account ceases and they lose all the funds they invested.
Listen to your financial institution
Banks and financial institutions often have safeguards in place to detect fraud and intercede before you transfer your funds to a possible scammer. If your bank or financial institution contacts you about a transfer you are making that is flagged as suspicious or fraudulent, listen.
Always research investment opportunities
Cryptocurrency platforms should have a whitepaper or other materials that explain how their cryptocurrency has been created and how it works. If the information is unclear or missing, be wary. In addition, review the biographies and backgrounds of the people managing the cryptocurrency. If that information is not easily available or missing, be cautious.
Question promises of guaranteed returns
No investment can guarantee future returns, as they will fluctuate. Cryptocurrency programs that guarantee a set return, a return that is exorbitant or offers free money is likely to be fake.
Be wary of pressure to act now
Scammers create a sense of urgency and pressure victims to click links, react and respond that moment, or make a payment immediately. These are red flags. Take the time to do further research.
Protect your personal information
Stop before you provide personal or financial informationCryptocurrency programs that guarantee a set return, a return that is exorbitant or offers free money is likely to be fake.
Careful with links and websites
Scammers imitate legitimate websites and embed bad links into texts and emails. Independently visit sites rather than clicking on links.
Caller ID Spoofing Scam
Scammers are using a technique called Caller ID Spoofing to pose as State National Bank team members or officers. These scammers are faking their phone number and caller ID information to make it appear as though they are calling from State National Bank.
Please Be Aware:
The State National Bank team will NEVER ask you for your passcode, security code, security question answers, or any information that may be used to obtain access to your Online Banking through an unsolicited phone call.
If you receive a suspicious or unsolicited call claiming to be from our Fraud department, or if you just feel uncomfortable with the questions being asked, hang up and call us back directly. We can be reached at (432) 264-2100 or you can call your local State National Bank branch and ask to be transferred to the Fraud Department.
Don't trust caller ID
Scammers can make any number appear, even your bank, a government agency, or a local business. Treat unexpected calls with caution, even if the number looks familiar.
Hang up and call back using a verified number
Use the company's official website, or a known contact line. Never rely on a number provided by the caller.
Never share personal or financial information
Legitimate institutions like State National Bank will not ask for account numbers, passwords, PINs, or verification codes over the phone. If someone pressures you, it's a red flag.
Watch for urgency or threats
Spoofers often use fear ("your account is locked") or pressure ("act now") to push you into quick decisions. Slow down — scammers hate that.
Use call-blocking tools and carrier protections
Many carriers offer spam-blocking or scam-likely filtering. Third-party apps can also help reduce spoofed calls.
Report suspicious calls
Reporting helps carriers and regulators track patterns and block.
Computer Bugs and Viruses
As new computer bugs and viruses are created and distributed, we want you to know what we're doing to protect your information.
What are bugs and viruses?
A software bug is a flaw in the computer code that creates errors in the application or program, which can make your computer vulnerable or have unexpected results. A computer virus is malicious code that can copy itself, and infect your computer and the way it operates. It can have unexpected or damaging effects.
Downloading files
Be cautious when downloading files from the internet, opening attachments or clicking on links. Use a recognized antivirus software or comprehensive security software.
Software updates
Update your system and mobile devices with the latest operating system versions and patches.
Unique passwords
Create different passwords for different websites, and make those passwords appropriately complex, using upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and, if allowed, symbols.
New passwords
Change your password regularly and enable your Online Banking account alerts. Those, along with other online account tools, will add another layer of coverage to your account.
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 Scams
"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.
Online Job Scams
"I was offered a job paying $700 to $2,800 a day! All they need is my Social Security number, a copy of my driver's license, and a payment for the training book."
Help protect your money and identity
Online job scams are fraudulent schemes where criminals pose as legitimate employers to trick people into sharing personal information, sending money, or performing tasks that benefit the scammer. They often start with a job offer that seems too good to be true, high pay, flexible hours, or "no experience needed". Once someone shows interest, the scammer may ask for sensitive details like a Social Security number, request payment for "training materials", or send a fake check and instruct the victim to return part of the money. These scams rely on urgency and trust, making it crucial to slow down, verify the employer, and never share personal or financial information with an unverified source.
Never pay for a job — upfront fees are a major red flag
Legitimate employers do not ask you to pay for training, equipment, certifications, or application processing. If someone asks for money before you're hired, it's a scam.
Be skeptical of "too good to be true" offers
Scammers often promise high pay, fast hiring, or guaranteed income with little effort. Unrealistic claims are a common tactic to lure victims.
Protect your personal information
Never share your Social Security number, bank details, or copies of your ID until you've verified the employer is legitimate and you've completed a formal hiring process.
Research the employer before responding
Look up the company's official website, verify job postings, and check for warnings online. Scammers often impersonate real companies using fake listings and emails.
The Truman Show Scam
As new AI-driven scams emerge, we want you to know what this scheme is, how it works, and what you can do to protect your information and your money.
Example Scam Text:
"Hey! We just closed another 12% gain in the group today. Our analyst says the next trade hits tonight. Join the chat so you don't miss out. Everyone's already posting their profits. Here's the link to get verified."
What is the Truman Show Scam?
The Truman Show Scam is a sophisticated fraud model where criminals create fake group chats, fake investment communities, and even fake financial apps—all populated entirely by AI-generated bots.
These bots hold conversations, share "success stories," react to messages, and simulate a thriving investment group.
The victim believes they are joining a real community. In reality, they are the only human in the chat, surrounded by AI personas designed to build trust and steer them toward sending money or personal information.
How the Scam Works
Scammers use AI to create a fully staged environment that feels active, credible, and urgent.
Common tactics include:
- Fake investment group chats where every "member" is an AI bot posting market tips, profit screenshots, and encouragement.
- AI moderators who appear knowledgeable and friendly, guiding victims toward "exclusive opportunities."
- Fraudulent trading apps or dashboards that show fake profits to convince victims to deposit more money.
- Personalized conversations where bots adapt to the victim's tone, questions, and hesitation.
- Emotional manipulation such as celebrating fake wins, offering sympathy, or creating fear of missing out.
- Requests for personal information under the guise of "verification," "tax forms," or "account setup."
Once money is sent, the scammers disappear—or continue the illusion until the victim has nothing left to give.
Be skeptical of unsolicited investment messages
Legitimate financial institutions do not cold-message people with investment opportunities.
Never trust group chats as proof
Social proof is manufactured. If a group feels too coordinated, it probably is.
Avoid downloading apps from links
If an app is legitimate, you can find it by searching the store yourself and it will have a real company behind it.
Never send crypto or wire transfers to strangers
These payments are irreversible.
Slow Down
Scammers rely on urgency; pausing— even for 30 seconds— breaks their psychological advantage.
Investment Account Fraud
Investment account fraud occurs when criminals trick individuals into sending money to fake investments, sharing account credentials, or authorizing fraudulent transfers from their brokerage, retirement, or investment accounts.
Example Scam Text:
You receive a phone call, text, or email from someone claiming to be an investment advisor or financial firm representative. They tell you about an "exclusive opportunity" that guarantees high returns with little or no risk. After investing, you discover the investment doesn't exist, and your money is gone.
Pro Tip
If someone promises high returns with little or no risk, that's a major red flag. Legitimate investments carry some level of risk, and no one can guarantee consistent profits.
Protect your future: Slow down, verify, and never invest based on pressure or fear of missing out.
Promises of guaranteed returns or "risk-free" investments
Pressure to act immediately before an opportunity disappears
Unsolicited calls, emails, texts, or social media messages about investments
Requests to send money via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or payment apps
Requests for account passwords, security codes, or remote access to your devices
Account statements or investment performance reports that seem unusual or difficult to verify
Research any investment before sending money
Verify that investment professionals and firms are properly registered
Enable multi-factor authentication on your financial accounts
Never share account passwords or one-time security codes
Be skeptical of investments that sound too good to be true
Regularly review account statements and transaction activity
Contact your financial institution directly using a trusted phone number if something seems suspicious
SIM Swapping
A SIM swapping scam happens when a criminal trick your mobile carrier into transferring your phone number to a SIM card they control. Once they take over your number, they receive your calls, texts, bank alerts, and verification codes, giving them the ability to break into your accounts.
Example Scam Text:
Scammers often pretend to be your carrier, your bank, or even a fraud department. A typical pitch might
sound like:
“We detected suspicious activity on your phone. We need to verify your identity — can you confirm your
account details? “Your SIM card is malfunctioning. We're issuing you a new one. I just need to verify your
name, date of birth, and account PIN.”
They use urgency and fear to get you to hand over personal information.
Pro Tip
Any sudden loss of service is a red flag. If account alerts, family of friends mentioning calls not going through, or anything else odd with your service is something to be suspicious about. Protect your future: Slow down and if you feel something is odd, look into it.
Promises of guaranteed returns or "risk-free" investments
Your phone suddenly shows “No Service” or stops receiving texts
You get alerts about password resets you didn't request
Your carrier account shows recent changes you didn't make
You're locked out of banking, email, or social media accounts
Any sudden loss of service is a major red flag.
Text Forwarding Scam (a.k.a. Call/SMS Forwarding Scam)
A text forwarding scam happens when a criminal secretly turns on call or text forwarding on your phone. Once activated, your messages — including bank alerts and verification codes — get sent directly to the scammer's number. This gives them the ability to break into your accounts, reset passwords, or impersonate you.
Example Scam Text:
Scammers often use urgency or pretend to be helpful. A typical approach might sound like: “I'm from your phone carrier. There's an issue with your line — type this code into your phone so we can fix it."
“I'm with your bank's fraud department. We need to verify your identity. Please dial this number so we can secure your account.”
They may also pretend to be a friend or family member who “lost access” to something and needs your help.
You suddenly stop receiving texts or calls
Your phone shows call forwarding or SMS forwarding is active
You receive alerts about password resets you didn't request
Someone pressures you to dial a code or “fix” your phone
Check your forwarding settings regularly
Never dial codes someone sends you unexpectedly
Use app-based authentication instead of SMS codes
Add a carrier PIN or passphrase to your mobile account
If something feels off, dial ##21# to cancel forwarding on most U.S. carriers
Contact your carrier immediately if your phone loses service unexpectedly
CAPTCHA Scam
A CAPTCHA scam uses fake "I'm Not a Robot" verification screens to trick people into downloading malware, giving scammers remote access to their computer, revealing passwords, or providing financial information.
Legitimate CAPTCHAs only verify that you're human. They should never ask you to install software, run commands, call a phone number, or provide sensitive information.
Example Scam Text:
Scammers often use urgency, fear, or pretend to be providing technical support. A typical CAPTCHA scam might sound like:
- "We noticed suspicious activity on your device. Complete this verification and download our security tool to continue"
- "To prove you're not a robot, press Windows + R and paste this code into your computer"
- "Your device may be infected with malware. Call our support team immediately to secure your account"
- "Verification failed. Please log in again and enter your banking credentials to continue"
- "Your session has expired. Complete this security check now to avoid losing access to your account"
They may also create convincing websites that display a familiar-looking CAPTCHA box with messages directing you to install software, run commands, provide passwords, call a phone number, or enter financial information.
Remember: A real CAPTCHA only verifies that you're human. It should never ask you to download software, run commands, provide passwords, or call technical support.
Pro Tip
STOP · LOOK · THINK
- Stop before clicking
- Look for unusual requests
- Think: "Would a CAPTCHA really ask me to do this?"/li>
If the answer is no, close the page and navigate directly to the website you intended to visit.
Unexpected CAPTCHA
The CAPTCHA appears on a website that normally doesn't use one.
Requests Software Downloads
A real CAPTCHA never requires downloading files or security tools.
Wants You to Run Commands
If it asks you to copy and paste commands into your computer, it's a scam.
Asks for Sensitive Information
Passwords, account numbers, Social Security numbers, or payment information should never be required.
Creates a Sense of Urgency
Scammers pressure victims into acting before thinking.
Disconnect Immediately
Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the network connection to limit further damage.
Change Passwords
Update passwords for email, banking, social media, and any accounts accessed from the affected device.
Run Security Scans
Use trusted antivirus or endpoint protection software to scan the device.
Contact Your Financial Institutions
Alert your bank and credit card companies if any financial information may have been exposed.
Monitor Accounts
Watch for unusual transactions, login alerts, password reset emails, or other suspicious activity.
Disclosure: Information is educational in nature and not a solicitation of business from State National Bank.