Common Financial Scams: Fraud Trends of 2025

Military families face unique challenges—frequent moves, deployments, and busy schedules often mean we rely heavily on digital banking. Unfortunately, these circumstances also put service members and families at greater risk for common scams. What’s the first step of protecting your household? Being aware of how these scams work! Keep reading. Here are top five banking scams of 2025.

1. Artificial Intelligence Scams

AI has changed the way we live. Unfortunately, it has also changed the way scammers operate. Cyber criminals now use computer-generated voices, emails, and chat messages to pose as bank representatives in AI scams. By pretending to be trustworthy, they create a false sense of security for their targets, who then unknowingly share sensitive details (i.e., login credentials and account numbers).

PROTECTION TIP: If you receive an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be “your bank,” do not share personal details. Hang up and call your bank’s actual phone number, which should be listed on your debit card or bank website.

2. Online Scams Through Fake Bank Websites

Fraudsters are designing fake banking websites and mobile apps that look nearly identical to legitimate platforms. These sites are designed to trick you into entering your login information, which gives criminals immediate access to your financial accounts.

PROTECTION TIPS: Always type your bank’s web address directly into your browser and avoid clicking URLs in email or texts unless you are 100% certain they are legitimate. And remember, you should only download official apps from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

3. Person-to-Person Payment Scams

Payment services like Zelle® and Cash App make transferring funds easy, but scammers take advantage of this by posing as buyers or sellers in online marketplaces. They convince their targets to send money for goods that are never delivered, and they pressure victims to transfer funds under urgent circumstances. In addition, wire transfers are also a common method due to their difficulty to reverse.

PROTECTION TIP: Only send funds to people you know personally and trust. Be cautious if anyone asks you to move money quickly, especially if they use pressure tactics and create urgency.

4. Fraudulent Text Message Scams

Text scams remain one of the most common ways cybercriminals reach unsuspecting victims. Scammers send text messages that claim to be from your bank, warning you about “suspicious activity” or asking you to “confirm account details.” These fraud attempts usually feature links to fake websites or phone numbers to phony customer service lines.

PROTECTION TIP: Do not click on links in unexpected texts. Instead, log into your online banking app directly or call your financial institution’s official phone number to confirm the legitimacy of the text message.

5. Fake Checks and Deposit Scams

Even in our digital-focused world, check fraud is still a problem. Fraudsters may send a check that appears legitimate and ask you to deposit it. Then, they will ask you to send part of the money back. Days later, the check bounces, and you are responsible for the full amount.

PROTECTION TIP: Be extra mindful when receiving checks from unfamiliar sources. Wait until the check has fully cleared before sending any money back.

How Does Armed Forces Bank Protect My Accounts?

We take fraud protection seriously at our military bank, and we offer multiple layers of protection to help keep your finances secure:

• We use advanced fraud detection to pinpoint fake websites and potential scams early.
• Our systems have secure authentication tools to protect your bank accounts.
• We host educational events at our military banking centers to help families identify and avoid scams.
• Our fraud prevention team monitors suspicious activity around the clock.
• We provide online resources and cybersecurity tips to help you stay updated on the latest scams.

How Do I Report Fraud at Armed Forces Bank?

If you think you have been targeted by a scam—or if something just doesn’t seem right—contact our military bank immediately. Here’s how:

• CONTACT METHOD 1: Log into our Mobile Banking* or Online Banking platforms and send a secure message through chat.
• CONTACT METHOD 2: Visit afbank.com and click the chat icon in the bottom right corner. Request to speak with a banker, available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Central Time; AND Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Central Time.
• CONTACT METHOD 3: Report scams by calling our Client Care line at 888-929-2265, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Central Time.

Online safety is part of financial readiness. Stay informed, stay cautious, and take action when something seems suspicious. We’re here to support you—every step of the way!

BANK CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION: Scams & Fraud; Preventing ID Theft; Reporting ID Theft; Fraud Alerts & Freezes; Mobile Security Tips; Visa Card Security; EMV Chip Technology.

SPECIFIC SCAMS: Military Scams; Veteran Scams; Email Scams; Phone Scams; Crypto Scams; Text Scams; Payday Loan Scams; SIM Swap Fraud; Pig-Butchering Scams; Financial Elder Abuse; Tax Season Cybersecurity; Holiday Fraud.