10/13/2026
Eight Online Scam Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
A message can look professional and still be fraudulent. Scammers may copy company logos, create realistic websites, use familiar names, or take control of someoneโs email or social media account.
Watch for these warning signs:
๐ฉ An unexpected message
An email or text asks you to click a link, download a file, or confirm personal or banking information.
๐ฉ Pressure to act immediately
The sender claims your account will be closed, your service will end, or you will lose money unless you respond right away.
๐ฉ An offer that seems too good to be true
The message promises an unexpected prize, a deeply discounted product, a favorable loan, or a large investment return with little risk.
๐ฉ An unusual message from someone you know
A friend, family member, or coworker suddenly asks for money, gift cards, account access, or a verification code. The personโs account may have been compromised.
๐ฉ A request for remote access
Someone claims your computer needs urgent repairs and asks you to install software that allows control of your device.
๐ฉ A receipt for something you did not purchase
A message claims you purchased antivirus software or another service and directs you to call a number to cancel it.
๐ฉ A suspicious website address
The address contains misspellings, extra letters, unusual symbols, or a domain that does not match the official company website.
๐ฉ An unusual payment request
The seller or caller demands payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or a person-to-person payment app.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency identifies unsolicited messages, fake websites, false receipts, unrealistic offers, remote-access requests, and unusual messages from compromised accounts as common signs of online fraud.
Use the 10-Second Scam Check
Before responding, ask:
1. Was I expecting this message?
2. Is the sender creating fear, excitement, or urgency?
3. Can I verify the request through a separate, trusted source?
A short pause can help protect your bank accounts, payment information, passwords, and identity.
๐ Save this checklist for later.
๐ค Share it with someone who shops, banks, or communicates online.
๐ Find a United Fidelity Bank Banking Center near you:
www.unitedfidelity.com/banking-centers
Never share passwords, account numbers, Social Security numbers, or one-time verification codes in response to an unexpected message.