Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and one of the most common tactics they use today is caller ID spoofing — making it look like a phone call, text, or message is coming from your bank when it’s not.
If you’ve ever received a call that appeared to come from Richwood Bank but felt suspicious, you’re not alone. These bank impersonation scams are on the rise, and they rely on urgency, trust, and deception to trick people into sharing sensitive information.
At Richwood Bank, protecting your financial privacy and security is our top priority. Knowing how these scams work is one of the best ways to stay protected.
What Is a Bank Impersonation Scam?
A bank impersonation scam occurs when fraudsters pretend to be a trusted financial institution to convince someone to:
- Share personal or online banking information
- Provide one-time passcodes (OTPs)
- Move money to another account
These scams often combine social engineering and phishing, using phone calls, text messages, or emails that closely mimic official bank communications.
How Caller ID Spoofing Works
Caller ID spoofing allows scammers to manipulate the information that appears on your phone screen. A call may look like it’s coming from:
- Your bank’s official phone number
- A local number
- Or even display the bank’s name
While the call looks legitimate, the person on the other end is not associated with the bank.
Warning Signs of a Spoofing or Imposter Scam
Scammers rely on pressure to prevent you from stopping to think. Watch for these red flags:
- Urgent messages demanding immediate action
- Unexpected calls, texts, or emails claiming to be from your bank
- Requests for passwords, PINs, or one-time passcodes
- Links or ads directing you to unfamiliar websites
- Aggressive, overly friendly, or rushed communication
Important reminder: Richwood Bank will never ask for your online banking password or one-time passcodes by phone, text, or email — even if the caller ID looks real.
How to Protect Yourself from Bank Spoofing Scams
Scammers rely on surprise and urgency. Slowing down and knowing what to watch for can help you stay in control.
Ask yourself:
- Was this call, text, or email unexpected?
- Am I being pressured to act immediately?
- Did the message come from a number or link I don’t recognize?
Be especially cautious if you’re asked to:
- Share your online banking username or password
- Provide a one-time passcode (OTP)
- Move money to another or “safe” account
- Click a link, download an app, or take immediate action
These are common tactics used in bank impersonation scams.
Tip: Always go directly to Richwood Bank’s official website or call the number on the back of your debit card. Never use contact information provided in a suspicious message.
Your Fraud Prevention Checklist
☐ I never share passwords or security codes over the phone or via text
☐ I only respond to messages I was expecting from verified sources
☐ I double-check suspicious calls, texts, or emails by contacting my bank directly
☐ I report suspicious activity to my bank immediately
Remember: You’re always in control. If something doesn’t feel right, pause and verify.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you may have shared information or fallen victim to a scam:
- Contact Richwood Bank immediately so we can help secure your accounts
- Change your online banking passwords
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
Our local team is here to help you respond quickly and confidently.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Secure
Scammers impersonating banks are becoming more convincing, but awareness is a powerful defense. By slowing down, verifying communications, and knowing what your bank will never ask for, you can protect yourself from spoofing and impersonation scams.
At Richwood Bank, your financial security comes first — and if something ever feels suspicious, we’re just a phone call away.
