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Real Stories - Zelle scam

Real Stories - Zelle scam

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In one common scenario, the customer receives a text that looks like it’s coming from the bank asking if a payment had been made with Zelle. The customer texts no. Then there’s a phone call from a person impersonating a bank official who asks about another transaction. While on the phone, with the phony bank official, the customer receives another text asking if they authorized a different payment via Zelle and provides a six-digit code. 

The phony bank representative then tells the customer to log into their account and provide the six-digit code to reverse the transaction—but by typing in the code, the customer is authorizing it instead. 

Look out for these red flags:

  • The person contacting you about a problem with your bank account is pushy or aggressive.
  • They insist there's no other way to fix the problem then following their instructions.
  • If it is a text or email, their message has grammatical errors.

How to prevent this type of fraud:

  • Only use money transfer apps with people you know.
  • Never discuss account numbers, PINs, or other personal information with anyone who contacts you.
  • If the person claiming a problem with your account needs your account info, look up your credit union or bank's phone number yourself and call them.
  • Don't call the number in the text, email, or voice mail, as it will connect you with the scammers.
  • Chances are that when you call your bank or credit union, they will say there is nothing wrong, and that way you don't fall for the Zelle scam, and you don't waste your money.



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