Impersonation Scams

Don’t let a familiar name fool you.

Impersonation scams happen when a fraudster pretends to be someone you know or trust—such as your bank, a government agency, law enforcement, a utility company, a well-known business, or even a friend or family member.

Scammers may call, text, email, or message you on social media. They can even spoof phone numbers and caller ID, making it appear that a call or text is coming from a legitimate source.

Their goal is simple: to convince you to send money or give them information they can use to access your accounts.

Warning Signs

Be suspicious if someone:

• Creates a sense of urgency. They may claim your account has been compromised, you owe money, or you must act immediately.
• Asks for passwords or security codes. Never provide your online banking password, PIN, one-time passcode, or verification code to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Requests personal or financial information. Be cautious about sharing your Social Security number, account number, debit card information, or other sensitive information.
• Demands unusual payment. Scammers often request gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, payment apps, or cash.
• Tells you to move money to “protect” it. A scammer may claim your account is at risk and instruct you to transfer your money to a “safe” account.
• Tells you not to talk to anyone. Fraudsters may tell you to keep the situation secret or discourage you from contacting your bank, family, or law enforcement.
• Contacts you from a familiar number—but something feels wrong. Caller ID can be faked. A familiar name or phone number does not guarantee the caller is legitimate.

How to protect yourself

STOP. Don’t let anyone pressure you into making an immediate decision.

HANG UP. If someone unexpectedly contacts you claiming to represent a bank, business, or government agency, end the conversation.

VERIFY. Contact the organization yourself using a phone number or website you know is legitimate. Don’t use contact information provided by the person who contacted you.

KEEP CODES PRIVATE. Never share passwords, PINs, security codes, or one-time verification codes.

THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK. Avoid clicking unexpected links or opening attachments in texts, emails, or social media messages.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If something doesn’t seem right, stop communicating until you can independently verify the request.

Think you've been scammed?

Act quickly. The sooner you respond, the better chance you may have of limiting your losses.

1. Contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Explain what happened and identify any transactions or account information that may have been compromised.
   
   
2. Change compromised passwords. Start with your email and financial accounts, and don’t reuse passwords.
   
   
3. Secure your cards and accounts. Ask whether cards or account numbers need to be blocked or replaced.
   
   
4. Review your accounts carefully. Watch for unauthorized transactions and continue monitoring your accounts.
   
   
5. Report the scam. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Depending on the situation, you may also need to contact local law enforcement or the company or agency the scammer impersonated.

Remember:

Caller ID can be faked. Urgency is a red flag. Verification is your best defense.

If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to represent Chambers Bank, hang up and call us directly at 800-603-1226.

We’re here to help you protect your money and your information.