Traditional bank identity theft scams are still very much alive, and fraudsters continue to try and access your personal financial information. Let’s take a look at some of the fraud schemes that are trending in 2024.
Phishing attacks targeting banking usually involve fraudulent emails or websites designed to trick users into providing sensitive information like usernames, passwords, or banking details. These emails often appear legitimate, mimicking official correspondences from banks, and may contain urgent requests to update account information or verify your identity.
Once the user unknowingly provides their information, attackers can use it for identity theft or unauthorized transactions. It’s essential to stay vigilant and verify the authenticity of any requests for sensitive information, especially via email or unfamiliar websites.
Text Message Scams, also known as “smishing,” involve fraudulent text messages sent to individuals posing as legitimate financial institutions. These messages typically contain urgent requests for the recipient to click on a link or reply with sensitive information such as account credentials, personal identification numbers, or other confidential data.
The links provided in these messages often lead to fake websites that closely resemble legitimate banking portals, where victims are prompted to enter their information. Alternatively, replying to the text message may lead to further communication with the scammer, who may attempt to extract sensitive information through various manipulative tactics.
The use of artificial intelligence in not only just banking but across industries is becoming more and more prevalent in our daily lives. Common artificial intelligence banking scams encompass a range of deceptive practices that exploit AI technology to manipulate, deceive, or defraud individuals.
Remember, Hancock Whitney may call you for verification purposes, or send product or promotional offerings via email. But we will NEVER contact you and ask you for your Social Security number, personal identification number (PIN) or online banking login credentials.
Our information security team works around the clock to keep your personal financial information safe. We’re dedicated to being your trusted financial partner and working with you to stay vigilant against criminals and fraudsters. That’s why we regularly provide you with advice and guidance to keep your assets secure through articles such as this one in our Insights blog.
Visit our Security Center for more information and tips about how to spot suspicious activity, protect your identity, and keep your information safe online.
If you believe that you may have replied to a phishing email or smishing text, or if you suspect your Hancock Whitney accounts could have been compromised due to an email or text scam, please call us at 1-800-448-8812 immediately.