How Scammers Pretend to Be Someone You Know

Pause Before You Trust

How Scammers Pretend to Be Someone You Know

Scammers don't always appear as strangers. They may pretend to be a trusted business, coworker, family member, or even your bank.

By making a message or call seem familiar, scammers hope you'll trust the request before taking time to verify it. Knowing what to watch for can help you recognize an impersonation scam.

Here are a few common tactics:

Fake Bank Representatives

A scammer may call or text claiming there's suspicious activity on your account or another problem that needs immediate attention. They may ask for account information, passwords, or a one-time security code.

If you receive an unexpected request, don't provide information or follow instructions from the caller. Contact your bank directly using a phone number you already know and trust, such as the number on the back of your debit card or the bank's official website.

Family Emergency Scams

A caller or message may claim that a family member or friend is in trouble and needs money immediately. The situation is often designed to feel urgent so you act before verifying the story.

Before sending money or sharing information, contact the person directly or check with another trusted family member who can confirm the situation.

Caller ID Spoofing

The name or number displayed on your phone isn't always proof of who's calling. Scammers can make a call appear to come from a familiar business, organization, or local phone number.

Instead of relying on caller ID, independently verify unexpected or unusual requests.

AI-Generated Voices and Messages

Artificial intelligence can be used to create convincing messages and imitate familiar voices. If a call or message seems unusual, even if the person sounds familiar, pause before responding.

Contact the person using another method you already know and trust to confirm the request.

Take a Moment Before You Trust

A familiar name, number, or voice doesn't always mean a request is legitimate. Taking a moment to independently verify who you're communicating with can help protect your personal information and your money.

Staying safe doesn't mean questioning every interaction. It means knowing when to pause, ask questions, and verify before you act.

If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that appears to be from State Bank & Trust Co., contact our team directly before sharing information or taking action.