Pull the plug on a scams: 5 warning signs of fraud

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics. They may use phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, fake websites, or even AI-generated voices and images to appear legitimate. While technology changes, most scams share the same warning signs.
 
Knowing these red flags can help you protect your money, personal information, and financial accounts.
 

What are the most common signs of a scam?

Most scams include one or more of these five warning signs:
  • They create urgency
  • They ask for money in unusual ways
  • They ask for sensitive information
  • They want you to trust what you see or hear
  • They tell you to keep it secret
If you notice any of these red flags, stop and verify before taking action.
 

Warning sign #1: They create urgency

Scammers want you to react before you have time to think.
 
Common examples include:
  • "Act now."
  • "Your account has been compromised."
  • "A loved one needs help immediately."
  • "Your payment is overdue."
Urgency is designed to trigger fear and panic. Take a moment to slow down, evaluate the situation, and verify the request before responding.
 

Warning sign #2: They ask for money in unusual ways

Legitimate businesses and financial institutions rarely demand payment through unconventional methods.
 
Be cautious if someone asks for payment using:
  • Gift cards
  • Wire transfers
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Payment apps
Requests for these payment methods are often difficult to reverse and are commonly used in fraud schemes.
 

Warning sign #3: They ask for sensitive information

A scammer's goal is often to gain access to your accounts or identity.
 
Never share:
  • Online banking usernames or passwords
  • One-time passcodes or verification codes
  • Social Security numbers
  • Debit card PINs
This is especially important when the person contacting you initiated the conversation.
 

Warning sign #4: They want you to trust what you see or hear

Advances in technology have made scams more convincing than ever.
 
Criminals can use:
  • Spoofed phone numbers
  • Fraudulent websites
  • Fake emails
  • AI-generated images
  • AI-generated voice cloning
Even if a message, website, or phone call appears legitimate, independently verify any request involving money, personal information, or account access.
 

Warning sign #5: They tell you to keep it secret

One of the biggest red flags is being told not to talk to someone you trust.
 
Scammers may tell you:
  • Not to contact your bank
  • Not to tell family members
  • Not to speak with a financial advisor
  • To keep the situation confidential
Isolation makes scams more effective. If someone insists on secrecy, treat it as a warning sign.
 

What is the best way to avoid a scam?

The most effective scam prevention tool is verification.
 
Before taking action:
  • Stop
  • Verify
  • Contact the person or organization directly
  • Get a second opinion
  • Trust your instincts
If something feels wrong, take the time to investigate before responding.
 

Concerned about a message or phone call?

If you are unsure whether a text message, email, phone call, or financial request is legitimate, contact Think Bank directly. Our team can help you determine whether a request is legitimate and discuss steps to help protect your accounts.

Call us at 1-800-288-3425. We're here to help.