Spotting scam calls: fake bank staff, bogus support, and shock calls

Why Phone Scams Work So Well

On the phone there’s no time to think, and a friendly, confident voice feels trustworthy. Scammers exploit exactly that. Plus, the caller ID can be spoofed. Seeing “Bank” or “Police” on the screen doesn’t prove anything.

Common Scams

• Fake bank employee: “We’ve noticed suspicious withdrawals on your account.” You’re asked to approve a transaction in the banking app, give a code, or transfer money to a “secure account.”
• Fake tech support: An alleged employee of a major software vendor reports a problem with your computer and wants to “help” via remote access.
• Shock call: A supposed relative has had an accident or is in custody, and an “officer” demands an immediate bail payment.
• Fake police: You’re warned about burglars in the neighbourhood and offered to put valuables “in safety.”
• Prize scam: You’re told you’ve won something, but you must pay a fee first.

Three Rules That Always Apply

1. Legitimate banks, authorities and software makers never ask for passwords, TANs, approval codes, or remote access to your computer. 2. If money or codes are involved: hang up and call back yourself – using the number you know from your card, statement or the official website. Don’t use the “call back” button. 3. Don’t let anyone pressure you. Anyone who rushes you, threatens you, or demands secrecy is almost always a scammer.

Approvals in the Banking App

The most dangerous trick uses your own banking app: the caller asks you to confirm a “cancellation” or “security check.” In reality you’re authorising a payment or a new device. Read every approval carefully. Never confirm anything you didn’t initiate yourself.

Remote Support and Screen Sharing

Never install remote‑support software at the instruction of an unexpected caller, and never share your screen. If it’s already happened: disconnect the device from the internet, call your bank, change passwords from another device. Our emergency‑help page walks you through the steps.

Protecting Your Family

Talk with your family about these scams and agree on a code word for genuine emergencies. Anyone who doesn’t know the code word shouldn’t receive money. Our guide “Protecting Parents and Grandparents Online” offers more tips.

If You’ve Been Targeted

• Call your bank immediately and have your card and online banking blocked – in Germany you can do this 24/7 via the emergency block line 116 116.
• Note the time, the displayed number and what was said.
• File a police report – call 110 only in an immediate emergency; otherwise report to your local precinct or online.