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Category: Fraud Prevention

#BanksNeverAskThat: Recognizing Phone Scams

Don’t recognize the number? Don’t answer. Even if a number looks legit, you can hang up and call someone you trust.

By Doug Segrest |

Don’t recognize the number of the incoming call? Then, don’t answer.

There could be a scammer on the other line.

Bad actors like to phish for information, using texts, emails and, yes, phone calls, to get access to your most important accounts.

So, before you answer the next phone call, consider these helpful hints from the ABA:

  1. Don’t rely on caller ID – Scammers can spoof real numbers and bank and company names. Always be wary of incoming calls.
  2. Never provide sensitive information – If someone asks for sensitive information, such as password, PIN or a one-time log-in code, don’t give it. Banks occasionally need to verify your identity, but they will do that only when you initiate the call.
  3. Watch out for a false sense of urgency – Scammers try to get you to act before you think things through, so beware any urgent threats. Don’t give in to the pressure.
  4. Hang up – Whether it’s a scammer impersonating your bank or a legitimate call, the best response is to hang up. If you believe the call may have been legit, contact the bank at a number you are familiar with.

Throughout October, Regions and banks across the nation are working to support the American Bankers Association’s annual #BanksNeverAskThatCampaign.

In the weeks ahead, we’ll show you what to look out for. That includes:

  • How to recognize email scams.
  • How to spot phone call scams.
  • How to identify text message scams.
  • And how to defend yourself – and respond, should you fall victim.

You can get a head start by going to the ABA’s website now: Home – Banks Never Ask That!

Once you think you’ve got a grasp on the situation, test your knowledge by playing Scam City, an interactive challenge with an old-school, video-game feel.

We’ll have fresh content on Doing More Today each week through the end of the month. And, as always, you can find more fraud prevention information from us at regions.com.

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The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.

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