Fake bank call: real banks never ask for these.
Someone calls or messages saying your account is at risk and they need to 'protect' it. The moment they ask for a code, password, or to install an app — it stops being your bank.
This is a second opinion, not a verdict. We never say a message is safe. If anything matches what you saw, slow down and verify before sending money or sharing codes.
“Bank Security”
Phone call · Today · 21:04
What this scam is, in plain words
Bank impersonation works because the script is well-rehearsed and the urgency feels real. The caller already knows enough about you (often from public data or earlier phishing) to sound legitimate. Then they push you to share a code, a password, or to install a remote-access app — that's the trap.
The 'safe account' they want you to move money to is theirs. Once the transfer is made, it is extremely hard to recover.
Warning signs
If two or more of these show up at once, slow down.
- They called you — you didn't call them.
- They ask for an OTP / verification code, PIN, password, or full card number.
- They ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, Quick Assist, or to share your screen.
- They want you to move money into a 'safe' or 'holding' account.
- Caller ID matches your bank — caller ID can be faked.
- They pressure you to stay on the line and not consult anyone.
What to do now
Calm steps you can take in the next two minutes.
Don't
- Don't read out any code, OTP, or password — your bank never asks for these.
- Don't install any app at their request, even if it 'looks official'.
- Don't move money 'to keep it safe' — that's the scam.
- Don't stay on the call if you feel pressured. You can hang up and call back yourself.
Do
- Hang up. Wait a minute. Then call your bank using the number printed on your bank card or their official app.
- Report the call to your bank's fraud line and to your country's anti-fraud authority.
- If anything was shared or transferred, contact your bank immediately to attempt recall and freeze cards.
One last reminder. We never say something is safe. We surface signs to help you pause and verify. If anything looks off, talk to one person you trust before sending money or sharing codes.
Related guides
Same playbook, different cover story.
OTP / security code
Never share the code. Not with your bank, not with anyone.
The 6-digit code that just arrived on your phone is a key. Anyone who asks you for it — bank, courier, official, 'support agent' — is trying to open a door you'd never voluntarily open.
Read the guideStart here
Is this a scam? Pause before you pay or share.
If you feel rushed, isolated, or asked to pay before you receive anything — pause. That feeling is usually right. Take two minutes to check it properly.
Read the guide“Money waiting” scam
“You have money waiting.” It almost certainly doesn't exist.
Someone has told you there is money in your name — social insurance, a refund, an inheritance, a lottery, an old account. Then they ask you to pay something small to release it. The money is not real.
Read the guideNot sure yet? Check the message before you reply.
Paste what you received. We'll point out the signs and tell you what to verify — before you reply, click, or send anything.