10 Red Flags That a Text, Email, or Phone Call Is a Phishing Scam

Phishing scams are designed to create confusion, urgency, and fear, making it easier for criminals to steal your personal information. Learning to recognize these common warning signs can help you spot suspicious communications before they put your finances or identity at risk. And remember, if something doesn’t seem right, FirstBank is here to help you verify concerns and bank with confidence.

1. The Message Creates Urgency
Scammers often pressure people to act quickly before they have time to think.

Examples include:
“Your account will be closed today.”
“Verify your information immediately.”

Why It’s a Red Flag
Legitimate organizations rarely demand immediate action through unsolicited emails, text messages, or phone calls. When in doubt, contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or website.

2. You’re Asked to Share Passwords or Sensitive Information
Fraudsters may request passwords, account numbers, Social Security numbers, or authentication codes.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Banks and other reputable organizations will never ask you to provide sensitive credentials through email, text, or unsolicited phone calls.

3. The Sender Address Looks Suspicious
A message may appear legitimate at first glance, but a closer look often reveals small spelling errors or unusual domains.

Examples include:
support@yourbank-secure.com
support@yourbannk.com

Why It’s a Red Flag
Cybercriminals frequently create fake addresses that closely resemble trusted organizations in an attempt to deceive recipients.

4. The Message Contains Suspicious Links
Scammers often include links that lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal login credentials or personal information.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Before clicking, hover over links to preview the destination. If you’re uncertain, visit the company’s website directly through your browser instead.

Learn more about protecting yourself online in our Security Resources Center

5. Unexpected Attachments
Even messages that appear to come from someone you know can contain harmful attachments.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Attachments may contain malware, ransomware, or software designed to steal confidential information. Avoid opening files you weren’t expecting to receive.

6. Generic Greetings
Many phishing messages use broad greetings rather than addressing you by name.

Examples include:
Dear Customer
Valued Account Holder
Dear User

Why It’s a Red Flag
Mass phishing campaigns are often sent to thousands of recipients at once, making generic greetings a common indicator of fraud.

7. Requests for One-Time Passcodes
Criminals frequently pose as customer service representatives and ask victims to share security codes sent by text message or email.

Why It’s a Red Flag
These codes are intended only for you and are often the final step needed to gain access to your account.
Never share one-time passcodes with anyone.

8. Pressure to Send Money Immediately
Scammers often create a sense of urgency involving payments, gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Fraudsters want victims to act before they have time to verify the request or identify inconsistencies.

9. Unexpected Prize or Reward Notifications
You receive a message claiming you’ve won money, a vacation, or another prize that you never entered to receive.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Legitimate prize notifications generally do not require sensitive information, fees, or immediate action to claim a reward.

10. Something Just Doesn’t Feel Right
Sometimes there may not be a single obvious warning sign, but the communication still feels unusual or suspicious.

Why It’s a Red Flag
Trust your instincts. If something seems off, pause and verify independently before sharing information or taking action.

What Should You Do Next?
If you receive a suspicious text, email, or phone call, don’t panic. Take a moment to verify the request through trusted channels before responding. For additional fraud prevention tips and security resources, visit FirstBank’s Security Center, or Contact Us if you have questions or need assistance. FirstBank is committed to helping you stay informed, stay secure, and protect what matters most.