Imposter scams vary, but they all work the same way. It begins with a call, text or email from a scammer who is pretending to be someone the person trusts (i.e. government agent, local law enforcement, family member) in order to convince them to send money, oftentimes, in the form of gift cards, mobile payment, wire transfer or cryptocurrency.
According to our Fraud Team, recently scammers have been calling people and posing as a representative from that person’s bank to collect debts. To add legitimacy to the call, scammers may even be spoofing phone numbers so it appears as though the call originated from the bank. Reports state the caller pressures the person to send money within 24 hours or else they will be arrested.
It’s important to note that although banks may call to collect on debts, they will not intimidate and scare customers by stating active warrants have been issued for unpaid credit card debt. Additionally, law enforcement will not resolve active arrest warrants by paying fines and any contact from government agencies are in writing and sent by mail.
To protect yourself from imposter scams:
- Never share personal or financial information.
- Never make a payment to someone you don’t know.
- When in doubt, hang up and contact the bank or agency directly. Do not call the number provided by the scammer.
If you have been targeted by an imposter scam file a report with your local police department and report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
If you are a Merrimack customer and are concerned your personal or financial information was compromised, please call us directly at 603.225.2793.