Signs that a text is fake and how to protect yourself. 


In today’s digital age, payment apps like Zelle®, Venmo®, and PayPal® have become convenient ways to send and receive money. Unfortunately, they’ve also become targets for scammers looking to steal your hard-earned cash. Fraudsters often impersonate trusted organizations or individuals, using these apps to trick you into sending them money. But don’t worry – Southern Michigan Bank & Trust is here to help you protect yourself from these scams with some essential tips.

Common Payment App Scams and How to Avoid Them

  1. Unexpected Requests for Money
    Be cautious when you receive an unexpected request to send money via a payment app. Whether it's a friend or a family member supposedly in need, always verify the request through another channel (like a phone call) before acting. If something feels off, it's likely a scam.

  2. Sending Money to Yourself
    If someone asks you to send money to yourself—whether it's through Zelle®, Venmo®, or any other app—don’t do it! This is a common scam, and legitimate banks never make such requests. Always be skeptical of anyone asking you to do this.

  3. Overpayment Scams
    Another common scam involves someone claiming they overpaid you via a payment app and asking for a refund. This is a red flag. If you didn't make a sale or transaction with the person, don’t send any money back. Trust your instincts and verify the situation carefully.

  4. Suspicious Links
    Payment app messages often come with links asking you to log in. Do not click on these links! Scammers use fake login pages to steal your personal and banking information. Always go directly to the app or website and log in manually to ensure your security.

  5. Pressure and Urgency
    Scammers create a false sense of urgency, like claiming an emergency or telling you that you've won a prize. They want you to act quickly without thinking. If you receive such a message, take a step back. Never rush into making a payment or sharing personal information. Always verify the situation before taking any action.

Protect Yourself with Southern Michigan Bank & Trust

At Southern Michigan Bank & Trust, your safety is our priority. We encourage you to stay vigilant and follow the tips above to protect yourself from payment app scams. But that's not all – our Southern Rewards program also offers ID theft assistance, giving you an added layer of protection against fraud. This service can help safeguard your identity and provide support if you're ever a victim of fraud.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN REWARDS

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you believe you've fallen victim to a scam or are concerned about suspicious activity on your accounts, please contact us immediately at (800) 379-7628.

We're here to help you with any issues and will work with you to resolve them as quickly as possible.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember that Southern Michigan Bank & Trust is always here to help protect your financial security. Reach out to us today if you have any questions or concerns!