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Help avoid common bank and money scams

Stay informed. Stay secure.

Phishing scams

Scammers send fake messages designed to trick you into sharing info or downloading harmful software.

Phishing: fake or deceptive emails

Vishing: fake or deceptive voice phone calls

Smishing: fake or deceptive text messages

Spearfishing and whaling: highly targeted phishing messages

Quishing: fake or deceptive QR codes

SEO poisoning (search engine phishing): fake website search results

How to help avoid phishing scams

  1. Don’t click links, scan QR codes, or open attachments from unknown senders or unexpected pop–up messages or ads.
  2. Don’t rely on caller ID. Scammers can easily spoof numbers. Let the call go to voicemail.
  3. Pause before acting on urgent or too–good–to–be–true messages.
  4. Never share sensitive information with anyone you don’t trust or can’t independently verify.
  5. Limit what you share online, especially social media, so scammers know less about you.
  6. Never allow remote access to your computer unless you initiate the request with a trusted provider.
  7. When in doubt, don’t respond. Confirm the message using contact info you know and trust.

If you clicked a suspicious link or shared info tied to your Wells Fargo account, call 1–866–867–5568. If you didn’t respond, forward the message to reportphish@wellsfargo.com.

Common scam scenarios

Slow down, avoid making quick decisions, and report fraud or suspicious activity.
Imposter scams

Scammers may pose as trusted organizations to steal your info or money.

Tip: Don’t engage. Contact the organization using a verified number.

Relationship scams

A fake online romance gains your trust then urgently asks for money.

Tip: Don’t send money or personal info to someone you’ve only met online.

Family member scams

Fraudsters impersonate friends or relatives in emergencies, sometimes using AI to mimic voices or images.

Tip: Pause and verify by calling the family member directly. Use a family password for added security.

Online shopping scams

Scammers push unreal deals or demand quick payment via apps or wire transfers.

Tip: Only buy online from trusted, verifiable sellers.

Social media scams

Beware of fake profiles, hacked accounts, and posts asking for money or personal info.

Tip: Verify before you click or engage, and limit what you share online.

Investment scams

Scammers push “guaranteed” investments, often in crypto, using pressure and real details.

Tip: Research thoroughly, avoid rushed decisions, and distrust “guaranteed returns.”

Lottery scams

You’re told you’ve won a prize but must pay fees or taxes upfront.

Tip: Remember that legitimate lotteries will never require you to pay a fee upfront.

Marketplace scams

A scammer poses as a buyer or seller, then takes the money or item and disappears.

Tip: Check reviews and verify the account before paying.

Job and recruitment scams

Scammers pose as recruiters using fake interviews or job offers to steal money or personal info.

Tip: Never share sensitive info or pay fees for a job opportunity. Learn more and report Wells Fargo job scams.

Examples of bank-related scam scenarios

Bank imposter scams

Scammers posing as your bank may claim an urgent issue and ask you to transfer your money, or ask for your information or card.

Remember:

  • Your bank won’t unexpectedly contact you and pressure urgent action.
  • Legitimate banks won’t ask you to transfer money or send your card.
  • Bank representatives won’t request your password or sensitive information.
Fake check scams

Scammers may ask you to deposit a fake check and send part of the money back. When the fake check bounces, you’re responsible.

Remember:

  • Don’t send money back to anyone you don’t know and trust who pays you by check.
  • If the check is for more than you expected or you are told to act fast, assume it’s a scam.
  • If unsure, take the check to your local Wells Fargo branch. If  you already deposited a suspicious check, contact us immediately.
Card cracking scams

Scammers may try to recruit you on social media to move stolen money via your bank account.

Remember:

  • Don’t share your debit card, PIN, or online banking details.
  • Don’t let anyone use your account or move money for them.
  • Easy money offers involving your bank account are a red flag.

Common payment methods

Scammers often push you to pay in ways that are difficult to reverse or recover.

Wire transfers or online payments

Once sent, difficult to recover.

Gift cards or prepaid cards

Untraceable payment method.

Cryptocurrency

Nearly irrecoverable once sent.

Cash or precious metals

Untraceable payment method.

Don’t forget about malware

Fake emails, texts, or websites can trick you into clicking links or downloading harmful software (malware) that steals information, tracks activity, or locks your files for ransom.

Learn how to secure your devices

Please note that due to technical reasons, some email messages forwarded to reportphish@wellsfargo.com may be rejected by our server. If this occurs, please delete the suspicious email or text message. Wells Fargo regularly works to detect fraudulent emails and websites. Thank you for taking steps to protect your personal and financial information.

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