Spotting Fraud Before It Happens

Scammers are getting more creative every day. Here’s a quick guide to understanding three of the most common fraud attempts and how you can protect yourself.

eMail (Phishing)

Phishing eMails are designed to look legitimate, but their goal is to trick you into giving away personal information, passwords, or account numbers.

Red Flags to Look For

• Unexpected eMails claiming your account is locked, suspended, or at risk
• Urgent requests for personal or financial information
• Misspelled words, poor grammar, or odd phrasing
• Sender eMail addresses that look close — but not identical — to real ones
• Suspicious links or attachments
• eMails that ask you to “verify,” “update,” or “confirm” your account

✅ What TO Do

• Hover over links (without clicking) to check where they actually lead
• Go directly to the company’s website instead of using links in the eMail
• Contact the company directly through known, trusted channels
• Delete the message if something feels off

❌ What NOT To Do

• Do not click on links or open attachments from unknown senders
• Do not reply with personal or financial information
• Do not trust eMails that pressure you with urgency or fear

Phone (Vishing)

“Vishing” uses voice calls to trick you into giving sensitive information — often by pretending to be your bank, a government agency, or a well-known company.

Red Flags to Look For

• Calls claiming to be your bank, asking for PINs, passwords, or codes
• Pressure to act immediately
• Threats of account closure, legal action, or financial loss
• Caller ID spoofing (the number looks legitimate but isn’t)

 ✅ What TO Do

• Hang up and call the bank directly using a known phone number
• Slow down — legitimate organizations will never rush or threaten you
• Register your phone number for spam alerts if available
• Report suspicious calls to your bank

❌ What NOT To Do

• Do not share one-time passcodes or online banking credentials
• Do not rely on caller ID — it can be faked
• Do not stay on the line if something feels wrong

Text (Smishing)

“Smishing” uses SMS or text messages to get you to click a malicious link or respond with personal information.

Red Flags to Look For

• Texts claiming your card is locked or your account is compromised
• Links that look unusual, shortened, or unfamiliar
• Messages from numbers you don’t recognize
• Texts asking you to “click to verify” or “update info now”

✅ What TO Do

• Delete suspicious texts immediately
• Log in to your account through the bank’s app or website to verify alerts
• Report the message to your bank
• Block the sender

❌ What NOT To Do

• Do not click on any link in an unexpected text
• Do not reply “STOP” to scam messages — it confirms your number is active
• Do not share financial or personal information by text

Stay Protected with These Simple Rules

• Your bank will never ask for your passwords, PINs, or one-time codes.
• Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is.
• Springs Valley does not utilize third-party services like a broker, if someone claims to be, notify us immediately.
• When in doubt, reach out – visit your local Springs Valley Banking Center or call us directly at 800.843.4947

If you think you’ve encountered a scam or accidentally provided information, contact us right away. We’re here to help keep your accounts safe and secure.

For additional fraud education visit Banks Never Ask That! Fraud Prevention