EddieJayonCrypto
19 Apr 25
Authorities warn of a bank impostor scam affecting customers at Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC, and others, with about $100,000 lost this year in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Scammers impersonate banks, sending texts about suspicious account activity to trick victims into calling fake number...
Authorities have issued a strong warning about a rising bank impostor scam in the US that has resulted in significant financial losses. Fraudsters impersonate major banks, including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and PNC, to trick victims into transferring money or purchasing gift cards under the guise of securing their accounts. In Prince George’s County, Maryland alone, around $100,000 has been lost to this scam so far this year.
The scammers typically send texts about suspicious account activity that prompt victims to call fake phone numbers. Victims are then urged to withdraw funds or buy gift cards and transfer them to fraudsters. Police advise that anyone who receives such messages should contact their bank directly using official phone numbers found on bank cards or visit a branch in person. It is crucial to hang up immediately if pressured to move money.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports a surge in scam-related losses, with $470 million lost last year—a fivefold increase since 2020. These scams often involve fake package deliveries, fraudulent job offers, and wrong number schemes. Suspicious texts should be forwarded to 7726 for investigation and action.