Don’t get caught in a bank scam

Protecting your financial information has never been more important. As technology advances, scammers develop new ways to target your money. Knowledge remains your best defense, and we're here to help you stay ahead of emerging threats.

This guide covers the latest scam tactics for 2026, from advanced AI-driven schemes to classic phishing attempts. Learn practical tips to safeguard your accounts and respond effectively if you suspect fraud. Protecting your finances is within your power, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Modern banking scams: New tricks, same goals

Scammers continually evolve their strategies, often relying on urgency and fear to trick people into acting without thinking. They may impersonate trusted organizations like your bank, government agencies, or well-known companies. Recognizing their techniques is key to staying safe.

How to protect yourself from bank scams

You can protect yourself from bank scams by building these steady habits:

1. Be cautious with requests for information. Never give out your password, PIN, or full account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
2. Verify all requests. If you get a call, text, or email that feels suspicious, don't respond directly. Contact your bank using a trusted, official phone number or website link.
3. Monitor your accounts. Check your statements and balances often to spot unauthorized transactions quickly.
4. Update your devices. Keep your phone, computer, and apps updated with the latest security patches.

Remember, it's always okay to pause and verify financial requests directly. Your security comes first.

 How to identify real bank messages

Spotting a genuine bank message is important. Here are key signs to look for:

• Personalized details: Your bank usually includes your name or part of your account information in messages.
• Professional language: Authentic bank messages use clear, professional language and are free from odd grammar or spelling mistakes.
• Official contact info: Real texts and emails provide legitimate contact information. If you're unsure, check your bank's website.

If something doesn't seem right, don't click any links. Reach out to your bank using information from their official site or the back of your card.

How to spot fake bank texts and calls

Here are warning signs that a text or call may not be from your bank:

• Unexpected requests for sensitive info: Your bank will never ask for your full password, PIN, or security codes.
• Urgent threats or promises: Scammers often try to scare you or dangle a reward to get you to act quickly.
• Unknown numbers: Calls or texts from unfamiliar or blocked numbers—especially those that seem pushy or urgent—are red flags.
• Threats or pressure: Any message threatening immediate account closure, legal action, or financial loss is a red flag.
• Spelling and grammar mistakes: Many scam messages contain awkward phrasing or misspelled words.
• Suspicious links or attachments: Never click unfamiliar links or download attachments from messages you weren't expecting.
• Requests for secrecy: If you're told to keep the conversation secret or not contact your bank, something's wrong.

If you're not sure, politely hang up or ignore the text. Then, contact your bank to double-check.

How scammers use AI to steal money

As AI technology progresses, scammers are using artificial intelligence to make their schemes more convincing. Here are a few ways to watch for in 2026:

• Voice cloning: AI can mimic voices, making fraudulent calls sound just like someone you know or a bank representative.
• Deepfake videos or messages: Some scammers create fake videos or audio clips to add pressure or believability.
• Personalized phishing: AI helps craft emails and texts that include your name and other details, making them feel strangely personal.

Stay alert. If something feels off, trust your instincts and verify independently. Set a family “safe word” for emergencies so you always have a way to check loved ones' identities.

 Bank impersonation scams: “This is your bank calling”

One common scam involves someone pretending to be from your bank. They may contact you via phone, text, or email, claiming there's suspicious activity on your account. Their goal is to trick you into sharing sensitive information like passwords, PINs, or verification codes.

How bank impersonation scams work

• You receive a text that looks like a fraud alert from your bank, asking you to confirm a transaction you don't recognize.
• When you reply “NO,” you get a call that appears to be from your bank's fraud department.
• The caller sounds professional and asks you to verify your identity by providing login details or a code sent to your phone. In reality, they use this information to access your account.

How to stay safe from bank impersonation scams

• Your bank will never ask for your password, PIN, or full account details through unsolicited messages.
• If you're unsure about a request, contact your bank directly using the official phone number on its website or your card.

AI voice cloning scams: When technology turns against you

Advancements in artificial intelligence have given scammers powerful tools like voice cloning. Using just a short recording of someone's voice, they can create a convincing imitation to carry out scams.

How AI voice cloning scams work

• You get a call from someone who sounds exactly like a loved one, claiming they're in trouble and urgently need money.
• They might talk about an accident, a robbery, or a medical emergency, prompting you to act immediately.
• The voice is so convincing that it's hard to doubt.

How to stay safe from AI voice cloning scams

• Set a safe word: Agree on a unique word or phrase with family members, and use it to confirm their identity in distressing situations.
• Verify the call: Hang up and call your loved one on their regular number to confirm the story. Avoid using the number the scammer provided.
• Pause and think: Scammers rely on panic. Take a moment to verify before acting.

Phishing and text message scams: Deceptive links and fake messages

Phishing (via email) and smishing (via text) are still popular fraud methods. These scams mimic official communications from banks or companies to trick you into sharing personal or financial information.

How phishing and text scams work

• You might get an email or text about a problem with an order, a locked account, or suspicious activity.
• The message includes a link to a fake website that looks legitimate, prompting you to enter sensitive information like passwords or payment details.

How to stay safe from phishing and text scams

• Check email addresses: Scammers often use addresses with slight misspellings (e.g., “everwisecu.net” instead of “everwisecu.com”).
• Hover over links: Before clicking, hover over links to see the actual URL. If it's suspicious or unfamiliar, don't click.
• Look for errors: Poor grammar or spelling is a common red flag in fake messages.

 Best practices to protect your finances in 2026

Developing strong security habits is the best way to stay safe. Here are key steps you can take:

1. Use strong, unique passwords

Create passwords that include upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed information like your birthday or pet's name. Use a unique password for every account, and consider a password manager to keep track of them securely.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Multi-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection. Even if someone steals your password, they can't access your account without the additional verification step, such as a code sent to your phone. Enable 2FA on all financial, email, and social media accounts.

3. Monitor your accounts regularly

Check your bank and credit card statements weekly for unfamiliar transactions. Scammers often test stolen information with small charges before making larger ones. Set up transaction alerts to track activity in real time.

4. Be wary of unsolicited contact

Be cautious of unexpected calls, texts, or emails, especially those requesting sensitive information or creating urgency. Legitimate organizations won't pressure you to act immediately. Take your time to verify the request through official channels.

5. Protect your personal information

Treat your personal data like cash. Be mindful of what you share online, especially on social media. Scammers can use publicly shared details to answer security questions or impersonate you. Consider setting profiles to private and avoid oversharing.

What to do if you suspect banking fraud

If you believe you've been targeted by a scam or shared sensitive information, act quickly:

1. Contact your bank: If the fraud involves your bank account, notify them immediately to secure your account, block transactions, and issue a new card if necessary.
2. Report the incident: File a report with your local police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at Consumer.ftc.gov. Reporting helps prevent others from falling victim.
3. Place a fraud alert: Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a free, one-year fraud alert on your credit reports. This makes it harder for scammers to open accounts in your name.

Staying informed and building smart, simple habits into your daily routine can help you protect your finances throughout 2026 and beyond. Your security is our top priority, and we're here to support you every step of the way.