Is That Text Message Really From Your Bank? 7 Red Flags to Watch For

You’re going about your day when a text from your bank pops up: “Unusual activity detected. Click here to secure your account.” It feels urgent, serious, and maybe even a little terrifying. After all, no one wants their bank account compromised.

But before you click that link or respond, ask yourself: Is this even real? The reality is that fake bank texts—or smishing scams—are on the rise, and scammers are getting better at making their messages look legit. If you’re not careful, one quick reply or click could put your account—and your money—at risk.

The good news? There are clear signs to watch for that can help you spot a scam before it goes any further. Let’s break them down.

1. The Text Didn’t Come From Your Bank’s Known Short Code

Banks use short codes—those 5- or 6-digit numbers—for official communications like fraud alerts. But short codes can be spoofed, so even if the number looks legit, don’t let your guard down.

Big red flag? The text came from:

• A 10-digit number, which banks don’t typically use for alerts.
• An email address (yes, some scammers send texts this way).
• An iMessage or other messaging platform.

Pro Tip: Never click a link or call a number in a text message. If you need to check your account, go directly to your bank’s app or official website. If you’re unsure, call the customer service number listed on your bank’s website—not the one in the text.

2. It Creates a Sense of Panic

Scammers rely on urgency to trick you into acting fast. They’ll send messages like:

• “Your account has been locked.”
• “Suspicious login attempt detected.”
• “A large transfer was flagged on your account.”

If the text is designed to make you panic-click a link or call a number, that’s a major red flag. Banks may alert you to potential fraud, but they’ll never push you to act immediately without verifying the issue first.

3. It Asks for Sensitive Information

Your bank already knows your account details. They’ll never ask for:

• Your password
• Your PIN
• Your Social Security number
• Any one-time verification codes (OTPs)

If a text is asking for personal or financial information, it’s a scam. Full stop.

4. It Contains a Link—And It’s Suspicious

Fake texts often include links that:

• Use shortened URLs (like Bitly or TinyURL) to hide their true destination.
• Slightly misspell your bank’s name (like “welllsfargo.com” or “chsae.com”).
• Redirect you to a site that mimics your bank’s login page to steal your credentials.

Pro tip: Never click links in texts claiming to be from your bank. Instead, go to their official app or website directly.

5. It Includes Weird Grammar or Formatting

While scammers are getting better at mimicking real messages, many still get tripped up by:

• Awkward phrasing: “Your account is temporary block. Verify now!”
• Random capitalization or punctuation: “ACT NOW!!! To Secure Your Funds.”
• Generic greetings: “Dear Customer” instead of using your name.

Legitimate bank texts are typically polished and professional.

6. It’s From a Bank You Don’t Even Use

This one’s a no-brainer. If you get a fraud alert or update from a bank where you don’t even have an account, it’s a scam. Legitimate banks don’t send texts to non-customers.

7. It Promises Free Money or Rewards

Banks don’t send texts out of the blue offering cash prizes, refunds, or rewards. If a text claims you’ve “won” something or need to “accept a deposit,” it’s a ploy to get your attention and your data.

What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Bank Text

Here’s your most important takeaway: never trust the information in the text itself. If you’re concerned about the message, always verify using a trusted source, like your bank’s official website or app.

Here’s how:

1. Use Your Bank’s App or Website: Log in directly to check for any alerts or messages.
2. Call the Number on Your Bank’s Website: Don’t call the number provided in the text—it could lead straight to a scammer. Use the official customer service number listed on your bank’s website or on the back of your debit or credit card.
3. Visit Your Bank in Person: For serious concerns, stop by your local branch to confirm.

This golden rule is simple but powerful: if you didn’t initiate contact, always verify using a trusted, independent source.

Common Scams to Watch For

Here are the most frequent fake bank texts:

1. Account Locked: “Your account has been locked due to suspicious activity.”
2. Large Purchase or Transfer: “Did you authorize a $1,500 payment to Amazon?”
3. Login Attempt: “Unusual login detected on your account.”
4. Update Information: “Please verify your account details to avoid suspension.”
5. Fake Deposits: “$750 has been sent to your account. Tap here to claim it.”
6. Password Reset Requests: “Your password reset code is 123456. If you didn’t request this, click here.”

Share This Knowledge with Someone You Care About

Here’s the thing: Scammers don’t just target you—they target your friends, family, and loved ones too. And the truth is, not everyone knows how to spot a fake bank text. That’s why it’s so important to share what you’ve learned.

Think about it:

• Does your parent know not to click on suspicious links?
• Would your best friend recognize a spoofed short code?
• Could your partner spot a phishing attempt?

Take a moment to talk to the people in your life about these scams. Send them this article, show them examples of fake texts, and encourage them to be cautious. The more people know how these scams work, the harder it will be for scammers to succeed.