Recognize the pattern
How it starts
A call or text that appears to come from your bank or a payment service.
The promise
Move the money now to protect it from fraud.
What happens next
Security fears obtain codes or transfer approval for an account controlled by the scammer.
Signs to watch for
- Asks you to move all savings
- Caller requests a one-time code
- Discourages contacting the bank independently
Start with what you can do now
If this happened to you
Hang up and contact the real bank
Explain transfers and disclosed credentials
Keep the bank's response and report
What to save
Keep the original records. Use copies to organize the details.
- Transaction-alert text
- Call details
- Receiving account
- Bank statement
Before you send money
- Call your bank using the number on your card or in its app.
- Do not move money based on an incoming caller’s instructions.
- Keep one-time codes private, even if the caller knows your account details.
These guides explain common patterns. The facts of your situation and your payment provider’s rules determine which steps are available.