Fraud Alert: Computer Pop-up & Text Scams

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, using fear, urgency and deception to convince people to act before they have time to think. One of the latest schemes begins with what appears to be a legitimate computer pop-up or text message warning you of suspicious activity—but it’s all designed to steal your money.

Understanding how these scams work can help you recognize the warning signs and protect yourself.

How the Scam Works

The scam often starts with a pop-up on your computer or a text message asking you to verify a transaction or warning that your account has been compromised. Once you engage, the scammer escalates the situation by claiming pornography or other illegal content has been found on your device, your computer has been hacked or infected with malware, or there is an internal fraud investigation at your financial institution.

These claims are designed to create panic, embarrassment and urgency. They then instruct you to move your money by withdrawing cash for pickup, wiring funds, depositing into a Bitcoin ATM, or allowing remote access to your computer. These are all red flags.

Remember: A legitimate bank will never ask you to move your money, send cash to a courier, deposit funds into cryptocurrency, or grant remote access to your computer.

What to Do

• Don’t click pop-ups or links. Close the window using the X.
• Never call the phone number shown in the pop-up. Contact your bank using a trusted number.
• Don’t enter personal or financial information.
• Be cautious of downloads and only download software from official websites.

How to Help Protect Yourself

• Install and keep antivirus software up to date.
• Enable a pop-up blocker in your browser or security software.
• Think before you click links in emails, texts, pop-ups, or social media.
• Slow down and verify unexpected requests independently.

When in Doubt, Contact Your Bank

If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from your financial institution, contact your bank directly. Staying informed is one of the best defenses against fraud.