Think about how many text messages you get in a day. Now think about how many of them you actually scrutinize before tapping a link. That gap is exactly what scammers are counting on.
Ashley O’Neal, a banker at Midwest BankCentre, explains how fraud reaches ordinary customers through the device already in their hand, and what to do before you click.
Your Phone Holds More Than You Think
A single click on a fraudulent link can expose information you never consciously decided to store anywhere. Consider what your phone is actually used for:
- Viewing your accounts, including balances and transaction history
- Online shopping, which often means saved payment methods and addresses
- Apps and games, each with their own stored account details
- Photos, which can contain far more personal information than people realize
All of that is meant for your eyes only. A fraudulent link is an attempt to change that.
Pause Before You Click
The habit worth building is a simple one. Be mindful before clicking any link, especially when the message comes from a number you do not recognize. A few seconds of hesitation costs you nothing, and it is the single most effective thing most people can do.
If you are unsure about a message, ask. Your cell phone provider can help, and so can we. There is no such thing as a question that is too small when your accounts are involved.
Angie Young, our Vice President of Financial Crimes, also explains why today’s scams look so real and how AI is changing what fraud looks like.
For more information, visit our fraud resource center or stop by one of our branches and ask a team member for assistance.