Young woman and elderly woman looking at a phone
Date: September 5, 2025
Fraud Prevention

What is Phishing?

Don’t Take the Bait

Phishing is a scam where fraudsters pretend to be someone you trust to trick you into sharing personal information, clicking a link, sending money or giving access to your accounts.

While phishing used to be mostly associated with suspicious emails, scammers are now using phone calls, text messages, social media and even video calls to make their scams feel more convincing.

Their goal is simple: gain your trust and get you to act before you have time to think.

Phishing Looks Different Than It Used To

Scammers are constantly changing their tactics. Today, they may use:

  • Fake phone calls or video calls pretending to be your bank or another trusted organization.
  • Spoofed numbers that make a call appear legitimate.
  • Fake websites designed to steal login information.
  • AI-generated voices or videos to impersonate someone you know.

For example, a scammer may contact you through a video call claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department. They may ask you to “verify” your identity by sharing passwords, security codes or other sensitive information.

Remember: Your bank will never ask for your password, one-time security codes or ask you to move money to “protect” your account.

Common Warning Signs

Be cautious if someone:

  • Creates urgency or pressure to act quickly.
  • Asks you to keep the conversation secret.
  • Requests passwords, security codes or personal information.
  • Asks you to send money or move funds.
  • Sends unexpected links asking you to log in or verify information.
  • Contacts you in an unusual way, such as an unexpected video call.

Even if someone looks or sounds legitimate, SLOW DOWN and take time to verify the request. If you receive a suspicious call, text or message claiming to be from your bank, stop and contact your financial institution using a trusted phone number.

How to Protect Yourself

Slow Down - Scammers rely on fear, urgency and pressure. Take a moment before clicking, sharing or sending.

Verify Before You Trust - If someone contacts you unexpectedly, confirm who they are before providing any information.

Pause and Ask - A quick question or second opinion could help prevent fraud. If something feels suspicious, stop and ask.

Remember - Scammers may change their approach, but the best defense stays the same:

Pause. Ask questions. Protect your information.