Can your bank ask you to move money to a “safe account”?
An unexpected caller telling you to transfer money to “protect” it is a scam pattern. Stop the conversation and contact the institution using a number you know is genuine.
What you need to know
If someone calls or messages claiming your account is under attack and says you must move money to a “safe,” “secure,” or “protected” account, the FTC says that is a scam. Real financial institutions may freeze transactions, replace cards, verify activity or tell you to contact fraud staff, but an unexpected caller should not direct you to move savings, retirement money, crypto or cash somewhere else to keep it safe. Do not share verification codes. End the contact and call the bank yourself using the number on your card, statement or official website.
“Move your money to protect it”
Requests for verification codes
Use a trusted number from your card, statement or official site