The Latest Fraud Scams to be Aware of:

Scam Alert: Scammers Using Wire Transfers and Zelle^® Payments

Currently, scammers are targeting payment methods that allow them to receive funds very quickly, and which are difficult to recover later. Scammers are not only convincing customers to send money, but they are also directing the methods the customer should use to complete the payment. Two of the payment types being used by scammers are Wire Transfers and Zelle^® or similar payment platforms because they are fast, cannot be stopped once the funds are sent and are very difficult to recover later. A trustworthy company will only rarely require you to use a specific form of payment such as a wire transfer.

Remote Access Scams: Granting access to your computer and personal information.

If you are contacted by someone requesting remote access to your computer, be very wary. A common scam involves the scammer telling you that “they” think your computer is infected with a virus or is running slowly and they can help you fix it. Remote access scams allow fraudsters access to your personal information, including account information, so that they can then move money from your account without your full awareness. Be wary of granting remote access to your computer to any unknown party that reaches out to you. Only give remote access or download remote access software when you initiate contact with a legitimate company through a verified means, such as a known website or phone number.

Also, if you get an email from an unknown source (hover over the sender’s name to validate the sender), do not click on any email link until you hover over the linked content to make sure it's legitimate (i.e., “citi.com”), as it could be a threat to your account and device security. Also, be cautious when opening any embedded document as that could pose the same risk.

Be a Partner in Fraud Prevention: Protect your personal information.

Bad players are after your personal information because it’s the key to your accounts. Here are some additional steps you can take to help safeguard those details:

• Question and verify all requests for information regarding payments, especially through unexpected calls, emails, or texts. If you have any doubt, contact the company directly, or Citi through the Citi Mobile^® App or Citi^® Online, or call the number on the back of your card.
• Set up 2-factor authentication with the companies you do business with to help keep your device and money secure.
• Review your accounts, and if you suspect your account has been compromised, change your user ID and password for your online access to Citi and other important accounts.
• If you notice you no longer have control of your phone, immediately contact your cell phone provider. Phone takeover (SIM swap) can put your money at risk.