Don't Get Fooled by Text Scams

In today's digital battlefield, phishing text messages are one of the ways that scammers break into your bank account and steal your money. These messages are designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information. But rest assured, keeping your information safe is relatively straightforward. Here's how you can shield yourself from these cyber threats:

Take your time:

The very first line of defense against phishing texts is proceeding with caution. Scammers rely on your confusion and panic, hoping that you’ll act without thinking. Don’t fall for this trap! Take a moment and think things through. And keep in mind, legitimate banks will never use high-pressure tactics or push you into making quick decisions.

Avoid clicking links:

Scammers frequently send phishing texts that link you to fake login pages. While these pages can appear legitimate, they are actually designed to steal your login credentials. Do not click on the links in these messages. If you are unsure, type your bank's official website URL directly into your browser or use their official mobile app.

Guard your personal information:

Your bank will never request sensitive information like your PIN, password, or any one-time login codes through a text message. So, if you receive a text asking for those details, it’s definitely a scam and red flag.

Delete the message:

Do not save the text messages or engage with scammers. Delete those messages immediately. If you want to report the scam, take a screenshot before deleting the message.

What should I do if I fall for a text scam?

If you are a victim of a phishing scam, here is your battle plan:

1. Change Your Password: If you clicked on a link and entered your login info to a fake site, fortify your defenses by changing your password immediately.

2. Contact your bank: Your bank is your ally in securing your account. Let them know what happened so they can prevent unauthorized transactions in the future.

3. File a Police Report: If your account takes a hit, it’s time to rally the troops. Reporting the incident to the police can help with the investigation.

4. Notify the FTC: Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This safeguards your interests and helps them track and prevent future scams. You can file a report online or call them at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).

By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can safeguard your finances from phishing text messages. Staying alert is your best defense in the digital world.

Does your bank have your back?

At Armed Forces Bank, security is one of our top priorities, and we stand guard to protect your hard-earned money. In fact, accounts like Access Rewards Checking have safeguards in place to help combat scams:

• Identity theft reimbursement coverage (See Insurance Disclosure)
• Comprehensive identity theft resolution services
• Credit file monitoring
• Credit report and score
• Identity monitoring
• Dark web monitoring

Learn more about smart cybersecurity practices in the Education section of our website (under “Banking Safely and Securely”), or learn about other types of phishing attempts like phone call scams in our blog.

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INSURANCE DISCLOSURE: Insurance products are NOT insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency; NOT a deposit of or guaranteed by the bank or any bank affiliate. Coverage is provided through the company named in the Guide to Benefit or on the certificate of insurance.