What would you do if you got a text message from your bank notifying you of suspicious activity on your account?

Oh no! I received a text from my bank saying there is suspicious activity on my account. I need to look into this quickly!  Hmmm… the bank is asking for my Online Banking username name and password in order to protect my account. That doesn’t seem right?  And the expiration date and CVV code from my card? Why would they need those?  The text looks like it’s coming from my bank, but to be safe, I’m not going to respond to it. Instead, I’m going to call the Customer Care number from the bank’s website to get this all straightened out.   

In the scenario above, the customer knew in their gut something was amiss – and they were right!  A bank will NEVER ask you for the following in a text, phone call or email:

  • Username and/or password
  • PIN
  • Security access/two-factor authentication code
  • Full card number
  • Card expiration date
  • Card CVV or CVC code (the three digits on the back of your card)
  • Full social security number

While this scenario references a text, it’s also common for scammers to call or email their targets. Their goal is to create a sense of urgency and panic. They want you to respond immediately so you don’t have time to think about what’s going on. Some fraudsters are even sophisticated enough to make it appear as if the call, text or email is coming from your bank! If you receive one of these messages or phone calls, do not respond!

Don’t click on any links.                 Delete the text or email.                Hang up the phone.

Contact your bank using the number on the back of your card or on their website. Kennebunk Savings’ customers can call our Customer Care Team at (800) 339-6573 or visit www.KennebunkSavings.com.