- February 2026
- Premier America
A new year often comes with fresh goals; getting organized, improving finances, and building better habits. It’s also a time when scammers look for opportunities to catch people off guard. As you reset for the year ahead, it’s important to stay informed about common scams and how to avoid them.
You’ve probably heard of phishing but knowing what it looks like and how to protect yourself is key. Phishing scams have become increasingly sophisticated, but there are still clear warning signs that can help you stay one step ahead.
What Is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of scam where an attacker sends a fraudulent message designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information. This information can then be used to access accounts, steal money, or commit identity theft.
Phishing attempts often arrive by email, phone call, or text message. These messages may appear to come from a trusted source, such as your financial institution or a payment service like Zelle. Some messages include links that lead to fake websites designed to look legitimate.
Tip: Do not assume phishing messages will automatically land in your junk or spam folder. Many scams are carefully crafted using information gathered online, allowing them to bypass email filters.
How to Detect Phishing Scams
Knowing what to look for can make a big difference. Common red flags include:
Inconsistent or unfamiliar email addresses
Phishing messages often come from unusual or misleading email addresses. Hovering over the sender’s address (without clicking) can reveal the true source. If the domain does not match the organization it claims to represent, it’s likely a scam.
Unfamiliar greetings or tone
Messages that use generic greetings, unusual nicknames, or an unexpected tone should raise concern. Financial institutions typically use consistent, professional language.
Poor grammar or spelling mistakes
Legitimate organizations carefully review their communications. Frequent errors or awkward phrasing are common indicators of phishing attempts.
Urgent or threatening language
Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming immediate action is required to avoid account closure, loss of funds, or missed opportunities. This pressure is meant to override careful thinking.
Requests for passwords or security codes
No legitimate financial institution will ask for your password, PIN, or one-time security codes through email, text, or phone calls. Ever.
Tip: Be cautious of text messages from phone numbers longer than 10 digits or from unfamiliar international formats. These are often associated with scams.
Additional Dos and Don’ts for Staying Secure
Don’t
-
Click links in unsolicited emails or text messages
-
Call phone numbers provided in suspicious messages
-
Share personal or financial information, including passwords, card numbers, or Social Security numbers
-
Respond to suspected scams, even as a joke
Do
-
Take time to verify messages before acting
-
Be skeptical of requests demanding immediate action
-
Access accounts only through official websites or mobile apps
Tip: Caller ID information can be spoofed to appear as if it’s coming from a trusted business. Never rely solely on caller ID to verify legitimacy.
What to Do If Something Seems Suspicious
If you receive a message or notice activity that doesn’t seem right, pause before taking action. Contact the organization directly using verified contact information, such as the phone number on the back of your debit card, within your banking app, or listed on the official website.
Starting the year informed and alert can help you protect your accounts and personal information all year long. For additional resources on avoiding scams, visit zellepay.com/pay-it-safe.