There are certain unusual requests nocredible bank would ever make of their customers. Being aware of potential red flags can help protect your money and identity from falling into the wrong hands.
This article will detail 15 strange requests your bank would never make, as well as precautions to take if you encounter shady behavior. Here are 15 things your bank will never ask you to do:
1. Share Your Login Details
Your bank will never ask you to share your PIN or password, whether it's over thephone, through email, or any other communication channel. Your PIN and password are personal and confidential, and sharing them with anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank, can compromise the security of your accounts.
2. Transfer Money to an Unknown Account
Your bank will never ask you to transfer funds to an unknown or unfamiliar account. If someone contacts you and requests a money transfer, especially if it's urgent or for an unfamiliar reason, it is likely a fraudulent request. Always double-check the legitimacy of such requests with your bank before taking any action.
3. Provide Personal Information Over the Phone
Your bank will never ask you to provide sensitive personal information like yourBank Verification Number (BVN),National Identity Number (NIN), account number, or address over the phone, email, SMS, or other channels. If someone claiming to be from your bank asks for this information, it is likely a scam. Legitimate banks have secure channels they use to request any information they need and will not ask for such information over the phone. If you get such a call, email, or message, stop communications with the person and contact your bank directly to report the incident.
4. Ignore Suspicious Activity in Your Account
Your bank will never ask you to ignore suspicious activity in your account. If you receive notifications or alerts aboutunusual transactions or unauthorized access, it is crucial to take immediate action. Contact your bank directly to report any suspicious activity and follow their instructions to protect your account and funds.
5. Download Unverified Applications
Your bank will never ask you to download unverified applications or software onto your devices. Official banking apps and software are usually available through trusted sources, such as official app stores or the bank's official website. Be cautious of downloading apps or software from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or be designed to steal your personal information.
6. Share One-Time Passcodes (OTP)
One-time passcodes are meant to be used for authentication purposes only and should not be shared with anyone, including your bank. Banks will never ask for your OTP.
7. Download Unknown Attachments
Legitimate banks will never send you unsolicited emails with attachments to download. Opening unknown attachments could expose your computer to viruses or malware that may compromise your personal and financial information.
8. Disclose Your Online Banking Security Questions
Your bank will not need your online banking security questions (or their answers) because banks do not need them. Neither should you share them with anyone else. These questions are designed to protect your account and should remain confidential. Be cautious if someone asks for this information.
9. Invest in Suspicious Money Schemes
Your bank will never encourage you to invest in suspicious or unverified money schemes promising high returns with low risk. Always do your research and be cautious of any investment opportunities that seem too good to be true.
10. Verify Your Account Information via Email or Phone
Banks typically have secure online platforms for account verification. They will never ask you to confirm your account details, such as your username, password, or account number, throughemail.
11. Make Transactions through Unsecured Channels
Your bank will never ask you to make payments or transfer funds through unsecured or unofficial channels. Ensure that you only use trusted and secure methods for financial transactions.
13. Share Your Card PIN or CVV
Banks will never request your PIN, whether for your debit or credit card, through email, phone calls, or text messages. Your PIN is a sensitive piece of information that should only be used at ATMs or authorized points of sale. Your CCV should only be used for online transactions.
14. Click on Suspicious Links
Be wary of emails or messages that contain suspicious links, especially if they claim to be from your bank. Banks will never send you unsolicited emails asking you to click on links to update your information, reset your password, or verify your account. Always double-check the sender's address before clicking any links.
15. Grant Remote Access to Your Computer
Fraudsters may pose as bank representatives and request remote access to your computer under the guise of providing assistance. Your bank will never ask for remote access to your device.
Conclusion
Knowing these 10 things your bank will never ask you to do is crucial in protecting yourself from fraudulent requests and scams. If you ever have doubts or suspicions about a questionable request, contact your bank through their official customer service channels to verify the legitimacy of the request.
Besides taking note of these fraudulent requests, you can also boost your financial security by deployingfraud prevention and cybersecurity measures like regularly monitoring your bank account, educating yourself about fraud prevention, and staying up to date on the latestfinancial scams and schemes.
