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Category: Fraud Prevention

#BanksNeverAskThat: Text Message Scams

Beware the unsolicited text, especially when it’s asking for sensitive information.

By Doug Segrest |

Everyone loves the convenience of texting. It’s fast, it’s easy.

And it’s a great way to phish you for sensitive information.

Before you reply to that urgent text, consider these helpful hints from the American Bankers Assocation:

  1. Slow down and think before you act – Scammers want you confused and in a rush. Before you reply to that urgent text, take a step back. Remember, banks don’t threaten you to respond or use high-pressure tactics.
  2. Don’t click links – Let’s repeat that: never, ever click a link in a text message, especially if it asks you to sign into your account. Scammers use these links to gain access. Instead, call your bank or go directly to their website for more information.
  3. Never respond with personal information – Your bank will never ask for your PIN, password or one-time code in a text message. Any unsolicited text asking for such information is a scam.
  4. Delete the message – Don’t save it and don’t risk accidentally responding to a fraudulent text later. If you are reporting the message to legal authorities, take a screenshot, then delete.

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.

"Would you rather give up sugar or salt?" Banks Never Ask That

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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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