A text about expiring rewards. A call from someone who sounds like a family member. An official-looking notice demanding payment. Scam texts and calls can resemble everyday communications, making them easy to trust when you’re busy or distracted.
Recognizing scams takes more than checking for spelling mistakes. Familiar voices, convincing documents and recognizable phone numbers can all be misleading. Knowing what to watch for and how to verify a request can help protect your money and personal information.
Familiar Messages Can Hide a Scam
Some scams start with something ordinary: a delivery update, an unexpected invoice or a notice about your rewards account. The Federal Trade Commission recently warned about texts claiming loyalty points will expire unless recipients click a link immediately. Other messages claim you owe money for a traffic violation.
Before responding, ask whether you were expecting the message. Avoid using its links or contact information to investigate. Instead, open the company’s app or visit its website independently to check your account.
Even if the message matches something happening in your life, verify it. Expecting a package or having a rewards account does not prove the sender is legitimate.
A Familiar Voice Is Not Proof
Caller ID can be spoofed, making a scam call appear to come from a familiar business or local number. Artificial intelligence also allows scammers to imitate voices using short audio clips, including recordings shared online.
A caller might sound like a relative who urgently needs money after an accident or another emergency. Rather than relying on the voice alone, end the call and contact that person using a number you already know. If you cannot reach them, check with another trusted family member before sending money.
Urgency and Secrecy Are Warning Signs
Scammers often pressure people to act before they can check the story. They may threaten arrest for missing jury duty, demand immediate payment or insist that you stay on the phone. Some tell you not to discuss the situation with family, law enforcement or your bank.
Treat requests for secrecy as a reason to pause. A badge number, official-looking document or convincing video call does not establish someone’s identity.
Verify the request through contact information you find independently. Demands to pay through gift cards, cryptocurrency or a courier are additional warning signs, particularly when someone claims to represent a government agency.
Take Action If You Responded
If you sent money or shared financial information, contact your bank promptly to discuss steps to safeguard your accounts. Save relevant messages, payment details and screenshots. Report the incident at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or IC3.gov.
Be cautious about follow-up offers to recover stolen money. Scammers may target previous victims while pretending to be investigators or recovery specialists. Verify those claims independently, too.
Taking a moment to verify unexpected contact can help you make a more informed decision before clicking, sharing information or sending money.
Give us a call at 800-526-9127, or explore our blog for more insights on recognizing scams, protecting your personal information and keeping your finances secure. Republic Bank of Chicago is committed to helping individuals and families stay informed and make confident financial decisions.
