How to Spot Bank Impersonation Scams and Stay Protected
Impersonation scams are on the rise — and they’re getting harder to spot. Fraudsters pretend to be your bank through phone calls, texts, emails and even online ads. Their goal? To trick you into sharing personal information or moving money into their hands.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
Why these scams work
Scammers use urgency and trust to their advantage. They spoof phone numbers, create lookalike websites and mimic official messages so well that even cautious consumers can be fooled.
Common tactics
- Phone Calls (Vishing): Caller ID looks real but it’s not. They claim there’s suspicious activity and ask for login details or one-time passcodes (OTPs). Some even tell you to move money to a “safe” account.
- Text Messages (Smishing): You get an urgent text about a locked account. The link leads to a fake login page or a fraudulent support number.
- Online Ads: Scammers run ads that look like your bank’s. Clicking takes you to a fake site designed to steal your information.
Red flags to watch for
- Unexpected calls, texts or emails claiming to be from your bank
- Messages that demand immediate action
- Requests for usernames, passwords or security codes
- Links or numbers you don’t recognize
Tip: Always go directly to your bank’s website or call the number on the back of your debit card. Never use a link or number from a suspicious message.
How to protect yourself
- Never share security codes or passwords by phone, text or email
- Respond only to messages you were expecting from verified sources
- Double-check any request by contacting your bank directly
- Report suspicious messages right away
If you think you’ve been scammed
- Call your bank immediately to secure your accounts
- Change your online banking password
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
Bottom line: Scammers are skilled at creating panic and urgency. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, stop and verify before you act.
Our commitment to your security
Protecting your financial information is a top priority at Northwest Bank. We use advanced security measures to safeguard your accounts and we’re here to help if you ever have concerns. Visit our Security Center to learn more about how we protect you and what you can do to stay safe.
