Five Questions to Ask Before Sending Money

Pause Before You Pay

Five Questions to Ask Before Sending Money

Sending money is faster and more convenient than ever. Unfortunately, scammers can use that convenience to pressure you into making payments that may be difficult to recover.

Whether you're asked to send a wire, purchase gift cards, or use a payment app, take a moment before you pay. A few simple questions can help you recognize a potential scam.

1. Was I expecting this request? Be cautious with unexpected invoices, payment requests, or messages asking for money, especially if the request is unusual.
2. Am I being pressured to act quickly? Scammers often create a sense of urgency. They may claim there's a problem with your account, an emergency, or a limited amount of time to make a payment. Slow down and verify the situation before taking action.
3. Is the payment method unusual? Pay attention when someone asks you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, a wire transfer, or a payment app, particularly when that isn't how you would normally pay.
4. Have I verified the request? If the request appears to come from your bank, a business, or someone you know, verify it independently. Contact the person or organization using a phone number or contact method you already know and trust, rather than information provided in the message.
5. Would I make this payment if I had more time? Pressure can make it harder to recognize the warning signs of a scam. Give yourself time to review the request, ask questions, and confirm that it's legitimate before sending money.

Take a Moment Before You Pay

Some payments can be difficult or impossible to recover once they're sent. Taking a moment to stop, verify the request, and ask questions can help protect your money.

If you're unsure about a payment request involving your State Bank & Trust Co. account, contact our team before you send money.