You’re minding your business, enjoying a cold brew in Shadyside, when a text comes through. “Did you make this charge for $325 at WALMART? Your account has been locked. Click here to verify.”
Panic ensues. There was no way that could be real. You haven’t been to that store this month. You go to click the link to verify when something hits you. This feels off.
Situations like this are becoming more common and can happen to anyone. The good news is that there are clear, actionable steps to take that can make a meaningful difference if you do fall prey to a phishing scam.
Here’s where to start:
1. Don’t panic.
In the age of AI, scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated. They’re skilled at creating urgency, pressuring you to act and act quickly so that your account can be restored. It’s that pressure that often leads people to not think things through.
It’s essential to trust your instincts in moments like this. If something doesn’t feel right, it usually isn’t.
2. Call your bank or credit union.
When the scam involves money or your accounts, your first move should be to contact your financial institution. Reach out to them using a trusted phone number, like the one on the back of your card or listed on their official website. Avoid using any contact information provided in a suspicious message or phone call.
Your financial institution can help you freeze your account(s) or card(s), flag or stop suspicious transactions, and walk you through next steps based on your situation. Even if you’re not sure whether something was a scam, it’s always worth reaching out. Having a real person on the line can make a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
3. Secure your accounts.
If you clicked a link or gave someone your password or login credentials, it’s important to act quickly to secure your accounts.
Start by changing your affected passwords, especially for online banking. If you use the same password across multiple sites, you’ll want to update those as well.
Most financial institutions offer two-factor authentication as an added layer of account protection. Once enabled, someone can’t access your account as easily, even if they have your password. Simple steps like this make a huge difference.
4. Document what happened
Save the text message and/or phone number it came from. Screenshot any website you may have entered or any other online interaction you took during this scam. If you entered information anywhere, note what was shared.
This information can support your financial institution’s investigation and help identify patterns in similar scams. It can also help flag patterns that protect other people from the same scam.
5. Know what to expect next
After you report the issue, your financial institution may begin a review process.
This can include:
- Investigating transactions
- Issuing provisional credits in certain situations
- Following up with additional questions or updates
These steps can take time. Staying in touch and keeping an eye on your accounts can help you feel more in control as things move forward.
Move forward with confidence
Getting scammed can feel unsettling, but taking a few quick steps can make a big difference. The sooner you act, the more control you have over what happens next. By staying calm, taking swift action, and leaning on the support of your financial institution, you can mitigate a scam’s impact and safeguard your accounts. Scammers may be evolving, but so are the strategies to outsmart them.
About Clearview Federal Credit Union: Clearview Federal Credit Union has been in operation since 1953 and serves more than 140,000 members in the Southwestern PA region. Their commitment is to create an inclusive and thriving community where financial growth and prosperity are accessible to everyone. When you choose Clearview, you're part of a movement toward a brighter financial future for yourself and for everyone around you. Clearview is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration and is an Equal Housing Lender.
